Meet The Tricolour Crab: New Species Discovered In Karnataka Forests

Last Updated:February 17, 2026, 14:49 IST

Beat Forester Gopal Naik noted that the crab is typically found at elevations between 500 and 600 metres above sea level and is confined to an area of approximately 24 sq kms.

In the damp shade of the central Western Ghats, where rainwater gathers in tree hollows and moss clings to ancient laterite rocks, forest staff often encounter life that rarely reaches scientific records. In Uttara Kannada district, such an encounter has led to the identification of a new freshwater crab species, adding to the growing evidence of the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.

A freshwater crab species, Ghatiana dhritiarum sp. nov., has been discovered in Devalamakki in the central Western Ghats of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. The species was found and documented by Beat Foresters Gopal Diggya Naik and Sunil Rama Gouda of the Karnataka Forest Department. The identification was later confirmed by the Zoological Survey of India.

This is the 77th freshwater crab species recorded in India and the 14th species in the Ghatiana genus, of which seven are found in Karnataka. Globally, more than 1500 freshwater crab species have been documented.

Habitat and feeding behaviour

Belonging to the family Gecarcinucidae, Ghatiana dhritiarum inhabits water filled holes in tree trunks and crevices within laterite boulders in evergreen forests. The species is omnivorous and feeds primarily on moss growing on laterite rocks, decaying leaves and bark, termites, mosquito larvae and small worms.

It also thrives on fungi and scavenges dead insects. Although it lives in hollow tree trunks, the crab prefers damp, water rich spaces.

Distinct morphology and colour changes

The species is characterized by a proportionately broad carapace and slender eyestalks. It also exhibits unique coloration that changes across its life stages.

During the juvenile stage, the head is black while the legs are bright orange. In the intermediate stage, the upper body appears creamy while the underside shows a mix of black and purple. In adulthood, the crab turns completely white, with sharp orange colouring on portions of the legs.

The crab is found only in evergreen forests or grasslands associated with naturally formed laterite boulders that date back millions of years. Because of this habitat specificity, it is considered an indicator species, reflecting the ecological health of the laterite ecosystem. It is typically seen during the monsoon season.

Discovery and scientific significance

PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Kumar Pushkar praised the discovery, noting that the scientific temperament shown by frontline forest staff is commendable. He said the species was discovered in the Shirave Hills of the Karwar division.

Chief Conservator of Forests T. Hiralal stated that the species was first found about one and a half years ago and later sent to the Zoological Survey of India for confirmation and listing. The species is endemic to Shirvegudda near Karwar.

Beat Forester Gopal Naik noted that the crab is typically found at elevations between 500 and 600 metres above sea level and is confined to an area of approximately 24 square kilometres.

Need for further research and conservation

The discovery highlights the need for continued biodiversity research in the Western Ghats, particularly the central Western Ghats of Karnataka. With seven species of the genus already recorded in the state, researchers believe more discoveries may follow with sustained scientific study, mentions the report in greenminute.in.

News buzz Meet The Tricolour Crab: New Species Discovered In Karnataka Forests