# Two New Species of Ochotona (Mammalia, Lagomorpha) From Xizang, China

## TL;DR

Researchers discovered two new pika species in Xizang, China, based on genetic and physical traits, highlighting hidden biodiversity in the Himalayas.

## Contribution

Description of two new pika species in the genus Ochotona, expanding known biodiversity in the Himalayan region.

## Key findings

- Phylogenetic analysis identified two distinct lineages within the O. macrotis and O. forresti species groups.
- Morphological traits confirmed the uniqueness of the two new pika species.
- The findings reveal previously underestimated diversity in the subgenus Conothoa.

## Abstract

During small mammal faunal surveys conducted in the Xizang Autonomous Region, China, in 2003, 2023, and 2024, we collected two previously unidentifiable taxa of pikas (Ochotona). Phylogenetic analyses based on both mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences resolved these specimens as distinct lineages within the
O. macrotis
and
O. forresti
species groups, both in the subgenus Conothoa. Morphological comparisons further supported their uniqueness. Consequently, we described them here as two new species. One new species, O. galunglaensis sp. nov., collected from Motuo and Bomi counties, exhibits the following diagnostic characteristics: (1) diminutive body size (mean head‐body length < 150 mm); (2) reduced auricular dimensions (ear length < 18 mm); (3) summer pelage exhibits brown‐red on top of head, beneath eyes, and shoulders; neck bears a gray patch and ventral light brown‐gray; (4) without oval foramen; foramina incisivum narrow and palatal foramina merged; and (5) premaxillae on both sides of foramina incisivum have a tendency to close in some specimens. The other new species, O. legbona sp. nov., collected from Cuona county, is unique as follows: (1) comparable head‐body length to
O. macrotis
, but with much shorter ears (mean 23 mm vs. 31–35 mm in congeners); (2) characteristic black vibrissae lining the inner pinnae; (3) summer pelage exhibits brown‐red on head, shoulder, and neck; ventral brown‐yellow; and (4) without oval foramen; foramina incisivum narrow and palatal foramina merged. Our findings highlight the previously underestimated diversity within Conothoa and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of pika diversity in the Himalayan region.

During small mammals faunal surveys in Xizang conducted in 2003, 2023, and 2024, we collected two unidentifiable taxa of Ochotona. Phylogenetic analyses based on both mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences resolve these specimens as distinct clusters within the
O. macrotis
and
O. forresti
species groups. Morphological comparisons support their uniqueness. Consequently, they constitute two new species.