Mesechinus orientalis found in Yuhang
Ecology
By Jin Yingying
In a groundbreaking discovery, experts have identified a new species of hedgehog that has been spotted in various locations, including Jingshan in Yuhang district.
The creature was initially spotted in a video from Moganshan in Deqing back in Sep 2021.
Distinguishing itself from the common hedgehogs found in Zhejiang, this new species, tentatively identified as Mesechinus hughi, has sparked considerable interest among researchers.
Further investigations revealed records of Mesechinus hughi in various locations, indicating a stable population extending from northwest Zhejiang to southern Anhui province. This revelation has led scientists to ponder the possibility of regional differentiations, potentially classifying it as an entirely new species.
The suspense surrounding this discovery was recently resolved with the formal classification of the hedgehog species found in Anhui and Zhejiang as the Mesechinus orientalis. Published in the journal ZooKeys, the article titled "A new species of forest hedgehog (Mesechinus, Erinaceidae, Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from eastern China" highlights the distinct characteristics setting it apart from Mesechinus hughi.
As the researchers explained to Sci.News website, "Mesechinus orientalis is a small-bodied hedgehog, similar to Mesechinus hughi, but smaller than other Mesechinus species."
The hedgehog boasts the briefest spines within its genus, measuring a mere 1.8-2 cm. Additionally, the ears are small, almost identical in length to the surrounding spines.