New Species of Mole in Eastern Turkey: Animal Likely Stayed Hidden for About 3 Million Years

The latest study found two new species of moles on parts of Eastern Turkey's mountains that have not been discovered for about three million years.

The moles were identified as Talpa hakkariensis and Talpa davidiana tatvanensis.

Researchers have been studying mole species around the world, and the discovery of the new species on land has been significant for scientists and researchers to implement possible conservation measures or avoid population decline.

In research published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, the study explained that cutting-edge technology, molecular genetics and nuclear DNA sequencing helped scientists to discover new species.

New mole species discovered in Eastern Turkey

When they found the new species of moles, researchers employed advanced technology to determine the distinction of moles from previously known species.

Researchers from the University of Plymouth, Ondokuz Mayıs University, and Indiana University conducted the study.

The researchers looked into the moles' size and shape.

They explained that new species of moles managed to survive on the mountains in Eastern Turkey, thriving in temperatures up to 50°C during summertime.

To find partners, moles can roam around their areas by making large tunnels. With the tunnels, moles can create essential nests to feed and raise their babies.

According to the report, the talpa hakkariensis can be found in portions of southeastern Turkey with distinctive DNA and morphology.

According to the report, Senior author David Bilton explained that finding new mammal species is considered rare. He said that there are about 6.500 species of mammal that are already known.

Bilton is an Aquatic Biology from the University of Plymouth.

The senior author added that more studies would help discover new species of mole and diversity. He said that in order to protect global biodiversity, there is a need to understand other existence of species.

Discovering new species can assist researchers and experts in developing conservation efforts.

These animals, along with many other creatures, are at risk of population decline and even eventual extinction due to both man-made and natural causes, which is why these studies and discoveries are of utmost importance to scientists.

Underground breathing of moles

Moles can be small, but they are considered unique, with their underground behaviors and way of survival.

They are known as burrowing creatures.

Moles can breathe underground. They are said to have super hemoglobin that helps them to survive their habitat. They can also leave marks in their areas using their urine.

Because many predators target moles, they frequently resurface from their burrows in twilight hours.

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