Chikilidae – Indian caecilians
Most recent (2012) family of caecilians to be identified, although the type species, Chikila fulleri, was first described in 1904
The most primitive family of caecilians. This family is made up of caecilians from India. It is the 10th and most recent family of Caecilians to be named. It is also known as “Northeast Indian Caecilians.” As the name suggests, they are found exclusively in the Northeast Indian region, and their members are among the most primitive caecilians known to date.
Members of the Chikilidae family exhibit a variety of adaptations that are particular to their environment, including underground burrowing habits and the presence of tentacles, both of which are believed to be indicators of the family’s antiquity.
As a result of their unique characteristics and limited geographic distribution, Chikilidae species are extremely vulnerable to the consequences of human activities such as deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urbanization. Without urgent conservation measures, we risk losing these creatures forever.
