An “amphibious rat” with partially webbed feet that eats aquatic insects was among 27 new species discovered during a 2022 expedition in the Peruvian Amazon, according to Conservation International.
Trond Larsen, head of Conservation International’s rapid assessment program, told Reuters this week that scientists also discovered a spiny rat, a squirrel, eight types of fish, three amphibians and 10 types of butterflies.
He said the other 48 species found by investigators were potentially new, but require further study.
The new species was found in Alto Mayo, a protected area containing several ecosystems, indigenous territories and villages.
“It is truly incredible to discover so many new species of mammals and vertebrates, especially in a human-impacted landscape like Alto Mayo,” Larsen said.
The expedition, scheduled between June and July 2022, was composed of 13 scientists, local technicians and members of indigenous groups.
“It was really fantastic to work so closely with the Awajun people. They have extensive traditional knowledge about the forests, animals and plants they live with,” Larson said.
Among the new species, Larsen highlighted the hard-furred spiny rat, the amphibious rat, and a dwarf squirrel measuring 14 cm (5.5 in).
“(The squirrel) fits very easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown color, very sharp,” Larson said. “It jumps fast and hides in the trees.”
Another favorite find, he said, was the blob-headed fish, a type of armored catfish.
A total of 2,046 species were recorded using camera traps, bioacoustic sensors and DNA sampling during the 38-day expedition. Of those, 49 were classified as threatened, including the yellow-tailed woolly monkey and the tree monkey.
Larson said the discoveries reinforced the need to protect the area.
“Unless steps are taken to protect these sites and help restore parts of the landscape… there is a strong possibility that they will not persist for long,” Larson said.
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