Six new beetle species discovered in northeast India
"The research underscores the importance of taxonomic studies and international collaborations… By accurately documenting species, scientists provide essential data for conservation planning and management," said ZSI Director Dr Dhriti Banerjee
The research team meticulously examined beetle specimens housed in the Coleoptera Section of the ZSI, Kolkata and the Museum in Germany. (Source: PIB)
As many as six new species of Sericinae bettle have been discovered by a team of researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and the Museum A Koenig in Germany, underscoring the exceptional biodiversity of northeast India and Western Ghats.
The newly identified beetle species are Maladera champhaiensis, Neoserica churachandpurensis, Maladera barasingha, Maladera lumlaensis, Serica subansiriensis, and Maladera onam.
The research team, comprising Dr Devanshu Gupta, Dr Debika Bhunia, and Dr Kailash Chandra from the ZSl, and Dr Dirk Ahrens from the Museum A Koenig, meticulously examined beetle specimens housed in the Coleoptera Section of the ZSI, Kolkata and the Museum in Germany. Their comprehensive analysis not only revealed these six previously unknown species belonging to the genera Maladera, Neoserica, and Serica but also documented new regional records for 28 other species, significantly providing insights into the area’s rich insect fauna.
Dr Dhriti Banerjee, Director of the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata, said, “This research highlights the critical role of international cooperation in advancing scientific knowledge and conservation outcomes and the need for ongoing exploration and documentation of insect biodiversity, particularly in under-sampled regions.”
“It underscores the importance of taxonomic studies and international collaborations in biodiversity conservation. By accurately identifying and documenting species, scientists provide essential data for conservation planning and management. We call for increased sampling efforts, particularly in northeast India, to further enhance our understanding of regional biodiversity and to inform strategies for its protection,” said Dr Banerjee.
Dr Devanshu Gupta, Scientist-D and Officer-in-Charge of the Coleoptera Section at the ZSI, Kolkata, mentioned that understanding the ecology and distribution of these beetle species yields tangible benefits. Identifying potential pest species early enables the development of environment-friendly pest management strategies, thus reducing reliance on harmful chemicals that can impact both human health and the environment.
“Moreover, preserving the biodiversity of these regions supports ecotourism initiatives, creating economic opportunities for local communities and fostering environmental stewardship. Recognizing that some Sericinae are known crop pests while others contribute to soil health, closing these knowledge gaps is crucial for developing sustainable agricultural practices, mitigating potential pest outbreaks that threaten farmers’ livelihoods, and ensuring the long-term health of our natural environment for present and future generations,” said Dr Gupta.
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