Updated By: LatestGKGS Desk
Pikas as ecosystem engineers-Ochotona Sikimaria, new species
New species of Pika family found in Sikkim- Ochotona Sikimaria
According to the studies, it has been found that a new species of rabbit family has been found in higher altitudes of Sikkim named Ochotona sikimaria.
These new species of the pika family does not have a physical difference but genetically they are different.
This study was discovered by the genetic data and skull measurements.
Pikas look like tail less rats and are the member of rabbit family.
Pikas do not hibernate but they prepare their own food for winter by collecting and storing hay piles.
Pikas are keystone species
Keystone species means that Pikas can survive in the ecosystem but when they extinct it has the gusting effect on the other species.
This study of the new species of Pika family has been published in Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution.
This new species of Pikas are limited so we should protect them for future.