Through strong collaboration and unwavering dedication, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF), the General Directorate of Forests, Coffee, and Industrial Plants, National Directorate of Nature Conservation and Eco-Tourism Development, along with valued partners like Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum of Singapore and Conservation International Timor-Leste (CI-TL), successfully conducted a survey from October to December 2022. This joint effort led to a remarkable outcome: the discovery of a new species, Cyrtodactylus Santana, within the beautiful Nino Konis Santana National Park.

This groundbreaking finding, officially recorded in the renowned ZooKeys journal (ZooKeys 1139: 107–126, 2023), ushers in a new era for conservation in Timor-Leste. The discovery highlights the vast biodiversity and ecological importance present in the National Park.

As we deepen our understanding of this newly found species, our commitment to fostering sustainable practices grows stronger. This discovery serves as a clear call to action, urging us to engage local communities and cultivate a shared responsibility for preserving this natural heritage for future generations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed partners, whose dedicated collaboration and unwavering support have played a pivotal role in enhancing the entire ecosystem of the Nino Konis Santana National Park. Together, we’re not only uncovering the wonders of our planet’s diversity but also working together harmoniously to protect and preserve it.