The first new cat species discovered in 100 years

Scientists have discovered a new species of cat, the first to be identified in over a century. The species, known as Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis, is a subspecies of the leopard cat found only on the Japanese island of Iriomote. It was found through the analysis of DNA samples from a cat that was captured on the island in 2017. The discovery was made by a team of researchers from the Japanese Ministry of the Environment and the Japanese government's National Institute of Genetics. The new species is thought to be a distinct subspecies due to its unique genetic makeup and physical characteristics, such as its smaller size and darker fur. The discovery is significant as it provides new insights into the evolution and diversity of the leopard cat species.