A new species of parasitic wasp has been discovered in Nagaland by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).
The species — Ceraphron initium — was discovered during a Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)-funded field survey in the northeastern state. From exceptional wing patterns and body structure to pigmentation and particularly peculiar male genitalia, its characteristics distinguish it from other documented species members of the Ceraphronidae family.
Dr Rameshkumar Anandan discovered the species, and rigorous morphological analyses, conducted by Amit Kumar Ghosh, Vikas Kumar, and A Rameshkumar — a team led by Kaomud Tyagi — confirmed the discovery.
Sometimes, ceraphronidae are overlooked and labelled as a dark taxonomic group because of their small size (0.8 mm to 1.5 mm) and complex morphology. In scientific terminology, “Dark Taxon” refers to a collection of creatures that were previously undiscovered due to how distinctive their characteristics are.
“This finding underscores the remarkable variety of insect species in India and the essential role that these species fulfil in our ecosystems,” remarked Dr Dhriti Banerjee, Director, ZSI. “Furthermore, it emphasises the importance of continuous study and conservational endeavours to save our rich natural heritage.”
“The discovery serves as evidence of the abundant biodiversity in India and emphasizes the need for ongoing investigation and study in our natural habitats,” said Tyagi.
A team from the ZSI led by Rajmohana K has also discovered four new species: Calotelea acuta, C. chitraka, C. foveata and C. fulva. These Hymenopteran wasps contribute to the ecosystem health by regulating populations of various insect species.
Banerjee added: “The team plans to focus on molecular and bioecological studies of these groups in the future. There is a need for extensive taxonomical studies on such lesser-known insect groups, as they can have important implications for sustainable agriculture.”
Published in the European Journal of Taxonomy, this research increases the total number of Calotelea species in India to 25.
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