Rare Albino cave crab in Meghalaya's secret cave ecosystem!

The remarkable find, discovered within the depths of Meghalaya's eighth longest cave, has astounded researchers with its unique physical characteristics, setting it apart from other known cave crabs across Asia. Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

Santanu Mitra, a ZSI scientist specializing in crab research, described the find as a significant addition to the scientific community, emphasizing the distinctiveness of the newly discovered species. Mitra highlighted the crab's unusual physical traits, noting its stark differences from conventional crab species, as well as previously discovered cave crabs in the region.

The discovery, attributed to Parveen Farzana Absar, a wildlife sciences postgraduate student at Aligarh Muslim University, has been hailed as a tribute to her dedication and curiosity in exploring the diverse realms of cave biology. Absar, while conducting research for her dissertation in the caves of Meghalaya, stumbled upon the crab species, sparking a chain of scientific inquiry and collaboration.

Identified as a member of the Teretamon genus, this cave-dwelling crab marks the third known species within its genus. Unlike its predecessors, which were found in non-cave environments, this particular species thrives in the darkness of cave ecosystems, showcasing adaptations tailored specifically to subterranean life.

Characterized by its albino appearance and diminutive size, measuring less than 2 cm, the newfound crab exhibits striking features such as slender legs adorned with fine hairs. Its adaptation to the cave environment is evident in its lack of pigmentation and reduced visual faculties, traits common among organisms dwelling in light-deprived habitats.

International experts, including renowned biologist Peter Ng Kee Lin from the University of Singapore, have expressed interest in the discovery, affirming its novelty within the realm of cave biology. Collaborative efforts between ZSI scientists and international counterparts have shed light on the distinctiveness of the Meghalaya cave crab, setting it apart from its counterparts across Asia.

As discussions surrounding the newfound species continue, researchers remain eager to unravel the mysteries surrounding this remarkable creature, further enriching our understanding of India's biodiversity and the intricacies of cave ecosystems.