Scientists Identify New Himalayan Pangolin Species Using 19th-Century DNA Samples

Researchers have identified a previously unrecognized species of Asian pangolin, Manis aurita, living at the foothills of the Himalayas across Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Previously mistaken for the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), this discovery, published in Communications Biology, clarifies the species' distinct evolutionary lineage and geographic distribution. The finding emerged from a decade-long study analyzing physical traits and DNA, including samples from the 19th century preserved at the Natural History Museum in London.

The research team, including Dr. Anderson Pejio from the Field Museum in Chicago and Dr. Narayan Koju from Pokhara University in Nepal, emphasized that recognizing Manis aurita as a separate species is crucial for conservation efforts. Pangolins are the most illegally trafficked mammals globally due to demand for their scales in traditional medicine, placing them at severe risk of extinction. Accurate species identification helps target anti-poaching measures and habitat protection more effectively.

This taxonomic clarification also resolves confusion with a recently proposed species named Manis indoburmanica, which now must be referred to as Manis aurita based on the earlier scientific description from 1836. The Himalayan pangolin differs from the Chinese pangolin by having a larger body, longer tail, and smaller ears, and inhabits non-overlapping geographic areas.

DNA analysis is particularly valuable since illegal wildlife markets typically trade only pangolin scales, making species identification difficult. The new genetic tools can pinpoint which species are being poached and from where, enabling better enforcement and conservation strategies. Dr. Pejio noted that defining species differences and habitat boundaries allows for more informed decisions to protect these endangered mammals.