A new discovery in the Amazon rainforest of Peru has unveiled a variety of unknown species, including an amphibious mouse with partially webbed feet that feeds on aquatic insects. The findings were the result of a 2022 expedition and were revealed by Conservation International. The newly discovered species list comprises 27 incredible creatures, one of which is the amphibious mouse.
This rodent is one of the most interesting and it has webbed feet; it feeds mainly on aquatic insects, making it a truly amazing discovery. Along with the rodent, scientists also unearthed a spiny mouse, a dwarf squirrel, eight species of fish, three amphibians, and 10 varieties of butterflies, according to Trond Larsen, head of Conservation International’s Rapid Assessment Program. Larsen shared with Reuters that 48 species discovered during the expedition are considered to be new and will require further study to classify officially.
This brought the number of species to an astonishing 2,046. Alto Mayo Expedition The findings were done in Alto Mayo, a protected area in the Amazon, which hosts diverse ecosystems, Indigenous territories, and villages. It was chosen because of the rich biodiversity it holds, along with human-influenced landscapes that provide scientists with a unique perspective on how nature and human activities intersect.
Larsen expressed his amazement at the findings, especially given the human impact on the region: “Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates.