Discoveries
39. Duttaphrynus dhara
Warjri, Das, Amarasinghe, Purkayastha, 2026
Publication :
Warjri H, M Das, AAT Amarasinghe, J Purkayastha (2006). A new toad species (Amphibia: Bufonidae: Duttaphrynus) from the Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, northeastern India. Taprobanica 15(1): 63–73.
Remarks :
We discovered Duttaphrynus dhara from Mawphlang in the Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, northeastern India. This study reveals previously unrecognized diversity within the Khasi Hills and forming a clade sister to an undescribed lineage from Chin State, Myanmar, and clearly separated from the most closely related congeners, D. stuarti and D. chandai.
Etymology:
The specific epithet dhara is used as a singular noun in apposition and refers to the traditional Khasi female attire known as the “Dhara” (locally corresponding to the Jainsem). This garment, commonly woven from Muga silk, is worn by knotting the fabric over both shoulders and draping it to the ankles, and is typically characterized by horizontal and vertical border patterns with fringes along the lower margin. The name is proposed in recognition of the cultural heritage of the Khasi community of Meghalaya, whose traditions and way of life remain closely connected to the forests and landscapes of the region. By invoking dhara, a symbol of identity and tradition, the epithet honours the cultural legacy, stewardship of nature, and enduring relationship between people and biodiversity in the Khasi Hills, where this species occurs.
English name:
Local name (Indian):
Etymology:
The specific epithet dhara is used as a singular noun in apposition and refers to the traditional Khasi female attire known as the “Dhara” (locally corresponding to the Jainsem). This garment, commonly woven from Muga silk, is worn by knotting the fabric over both shoulders and draping it to the ankles, and is typically characterized by horizontal and vertical border patterns with fringes along the lower margin. The name is proposed in recognition of the cultural heritage of the Khasi community of Meghalaya, whose traditions and way of life remain closely connected to the forests and landscapes of the region. By invoking dhara, a symbol of identity and tradition, the epithet honours the cultural legacy, stewardship of nature, and enduring relationship between people and biodiversity in the Khasi Hills, where this species occurs.
English name:
Local name (Indian):