A team of researchers from Peruvian universities Unsa (Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa) And UCSM (Universidad Católica de Santa María) made an exceptional discovery within the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu: a new species of semi -water rodotor, never documented before.
The little mammal was called Incanomys Mayopumaand represents within the tribe of Ichthyomyini. The discovery, published in the scientific magazine Diversityhighlights the incredible wealth of biodiversity still unexplored in the Peruvian Andes.
A semi -plaquatic rodent with unique traits and linked to the Inca culture
THE’Incanomys Mayopuma lives in high altitude environments, at about 2800 meters above sea levelimmersed between streams and dense mountain forests. Present a thick gray mantle, ears not visibleAnd legs particularly adapted to life in watercharacteristics that suggest a specific evolution to the river environment.
The name of the new species has deep cultural roots: “Incanomys“Pays homage to ancient civilization InchWhile “Mayopuma“Combine two words in Quechua: “Mayu” (river) And “puma”symbol of agility and strength. The animal therefore embodies not only a biological rarity, but also a tribute to the Andean culture and nature.
A discovery that strengthens the importance of protected natural areas
The presence of this new species within the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchuone of the most visited sites of Peru and the world, shows that also the areas very popular with tourism they still hide unexplored natural treasures. According to scientists, theIncanomys Mayopuma represents a Single evolutionary lineclosely linked to high mountain river ecosystems.
The Sernanp (Servicio Nacional de áreas Naturas Protagidas Por El Estado) highlighted how this discovery underlines the value of protected natural areas not only in conservation of biodiversitybut also in the Promotion of scientific research. Protect fragile environments like that of Machu Picchu therefore becomes essential to ensure the survival of rare and still unknown species.
According to the team of scholars, composed of Horacio Zevallos, Alexander Pari, César Medina, Kateryn Pino, Sandra Arias, Alayda Arce and Fiorella Gonzálesthe discovery ofIncanomys Mayopuma It is not only a scientific goal, but also a strong message in favor of protection of mountain ecosystems.
Knowing and documenting new species is fundamental for better understand the biodiversity of Peruan invaluable natural heritage. At the same time, this type of discoveries urged Urgent actions to protect fragile habitatsput at risk by climate change, urbanization and uncontrolled tourism.
The future of this new species, like that of many others to be discovered, It depends directly on our conservation efforts. Preserving Machu Picchu and other natural sanctuaries is not only an environmental duty, but also an opportunity for Continue to reveal the most surprising secrets of Peruvian nature.
