New species unveiled in Amazon: 'Amphibious mice' and more

Conservation International scientists discovered 27 new species during an expedition to the Peruvian Amazon in 2022. Among them were "amphibious mice" with webbed feet and fish with "bizarre, blobby heads."

The expedition, which took place in the protected forest area of Alto Mayo (northern Peru), resulted in the discovery of, among others, a new species of squirrel (squirrel subfamily), eight species of fish, three species of amphibians, and ten species of butterflies. Trond Larsen from Conservation International, who led the expedition, reported finding 48 other species that may be new to science but require further investigation.

We were very surprised to find such high biodiversity in a landscape with so much human influence – said Larsen in an interview with CNN.

Among the discovered species were fish with "bizarrely swollen heads," which resemble a "large, swollen nose." Scientists are not sure of the function of this structure, although they suspect it may be used for detecting food. The new squirrel species, measuring just 15 centimetres, is characterised by a chestnut-brown colour and quick movements.

(The squirrel) fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown color, very fast - said Larsen.

Besides the "amphibious mouse" - swimming and feeding on aquatic insects, scientists also described a new species of spiny mouse, which owes its name to the protective stiff hairs, functioning similarly to the spines of a porcupine - reported BBC.

The expedition lasted 38 days and involved 13 scientists, local workers, and Indigenous community members. Researchers collected DNA samples using cameras and bioacoustic sensors. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 2,000 species were identified, of which 49 are threatened with extinction.

Trond Larsen emphasised that these discoveries support protecting this area to ensure its future survival.