In an extraordinary scientific achievement, researchers have identified 27 new species in the Alto Mayo Landscape of Peru’s San Martín region.
The expedition in Alto Mayo, led by Conservation International in collaboration with local scientists and Indigenous experts, has shed light on the rich biodiversity of a region heavily impacted by human activities. The discoveries include four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians, ten butterflies, and two insects previously unknown to science.
“Discovering even one new species of mammal is remarkable, but finding four is absolutely mind-blowing,” said Trond Larsen, leader of Conservation International’s Rapid Assessment Program (RAP).
Among the new mammals identified are a bat, a squirrel, a spiny mouse, and an incredibly rare amphibious rodent. The latter, part of a semi-aquatic carnivorous group, is notoriously elusive, making its discovery a highlight of the expedition.
In total, the team recorded 151 mammal species in the region, 12 of which face the threat of extinction. The findings underscore the critical need for conservation efforts in the Alto Mayo area.
The waters of Alto Mayo had their own surprises. Out of 68 fish species documented, eight are new to science, including a blob-headed fish that has researchers buzzing.
“This species is so bizarre and distinct, yet has never before been documented by scientists,” said Larsen. While the purpose of its unusual head structure remains unknown, researchers are eager to uncover its ecological role.
The team struck gold again in the amphibian and reptile department, identifying 45 species, three of which are new: a rain frog, a narrow-mouthed frog, and a climbing salamander. These little creatures are crucial to the ecosystem, and their discovery adds another layer to our understanding of this biodiversity hotspot.
In addition to amphibians, researchers documented 289 insect species, 12 of which are new. This array of discoveries highlights the area’s ecological richness and the importance of preserving its habitats.
The success of the expedition was made possible by advanced technology like automated camera traps, bioacoustic sensors, and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. These tools enabled researchers to identify species based on DNA traces left in the water. Alongside these methods, local Indigenous experts from the Awajún communities contributed invaluable traditional knowledge.
“This was probably the most complex and large-scale RAP we have ever conducted,” said Larsen. Despite the challenges of living in remote rainforest conditions, he noted that the experience “feels like home.”
The Alto Mayo Landscape is renowned for its biodiversity, even as it faces significant pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion. Conservation International has partnered with Indigenous groups, local communities, and governments to promote sustainable practices that balance ecological preservation with human needs.
“These findings underscore that biodiversity can persist alongside human activity, but only if ecosystems are managed sustainably,” Larsen emphasized. The expedition’s data will inform plans to connect the Alto Mayo Protected Forest with the Cordillera Escalera Regional Conservation Area, creating an ecological corridor to support species survival.
For Larsen and his team, the expedition is more than a scientific milestone. It represents a deeper connection to nature and a commitment to preserving it.
“This wasn’t just science; it was about connection. Being out there in nature, learning from the locals, and uncovering these incredible species is what keeps us going,” he said.
The research also provides critical support for local communities. Yulisa Tuwi, an Awajún woman who participated in the study, highlighted its significance: “This Rapid Assessment allows the Awajún to protect our culture, natural resources, and territory. It helps us understand how plants, animals, and ecosystems interact as part of our cosmovision.”
With the Alto Mayo RAP expedition, the team has not only expanded the catalog of life on Earth but also reinforced the importance of sustainable coexistence between humans and nature.
Alto Mayo is full of amazing wildlife, but it’s under constant threat from deforestation and farming. These new discoveries show why it’s so important to protect places like this.
The information from this research will help create safe pathways for animals to live and move around while also supporting people who live there. We need to protect places like the Alto Mayo, not just for the creatures that live there but for all of us.
