May 28, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan researchers have identified a previously unknown species of spiny mouse in the remote Puwakpitiya Valley within the Dumbara, or Knuckles, Mountain Range, marking another significant addition to the island’s remarkable endemic wildlife.
The newly documented species has been given the scientific name Mus dumbara, while it is commonly referred to as the “Dumbara Valley spiny mouse”. In Sinhala, the animal has been named “Dumbara katu heen meeya”.
The discovery emerged from a detailed scientific investigation combining physical examinations, skull structure analysis and modern DNA sequencing techniques. The research was conducted by scientists Suyama H. Boyagoda, Madhava Meegaskumbura and Kelum Manamendra-Arachchi, whose findings further strengthen Sri Lanka’s reputation as one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
According to the researchers, the small rodent possesses several unique characteristics that clearly distinguish it from previously identified species. Among its defining features are a tail longer than its body length, distinct cranial formations and specialised dental structures not seen in closely related spiny mice found elsewhere in Sri Lanka.
Genetic studies revealed that the species is significantly different from known native relatives such as Mus mayori and Mus fernandoni, with mitochondrial DNA variations exceeding 11 per cent. Scientists say this level of divergence indicates a long period of evolutionary separation within Sri Lanka’s isolated montane ecosystems.
Interestingly, the species was identified from only two specimens originally collected during a mammal survey carried out in the early 2000s near forested paddy field habitats in the Matale District. Despite subsequent field studies and trapping efforts conducted over several years, no additional populations have yet been discovered, raising concerns that the species may exist within an extremely limited geographical range.
Experts have classified Mus dumbara under the subgenus Pyromys, with comparisons to related South Asian species confirming both its genetic uniqueness and distinct physical adaptations.
Conservationists say the discovery once again highlights the ecological importance of the Knuckles Mountain Range, a region known for its isolated habitats, diverse climate zones and high concentration of endemic flora and fauna. Scientists believe the area continues to harbour undiscovered species, particularly among smaller mammals, amphibians and reptiles adapted to specialised environments.
Researchers have called for further ecological surveys and conservation assessments to determine the population size, habitat requirements and long-term survival prospects of the newly discovered rodent. Environmentalists warn that habitat degradation and climate change could pose serious threats to species confined to narrow mountain ecosystems.
The finding adds another chapter to Sri Lanka’s growing record of scientific discoveries and reinforces calls for stronger protection of the island’s fragile highland forests and biodiversity-rich landscapes.