Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Conservation
Why in News?
Scientists recently discover 2 new lichen moth species namely, Caulocera hollowayi and Asura buxa in the eastern Himalayas.
- It represents a significant addition to India’s biodiversity records, particularly within the Lepidoptera group.
- Lepidoptera is the second-largest order of insects, comprising butterflies and moths.
|
Species Name
|
Discovery Location
|
Key Identifiers
|
|
Caulocera hollowayi
|
Near Golitar, Sikkim
|
Named after the late Dr. Jeremy D. Holloway, a renowned lepidopterist. Distinguished by unique wing color patterns and microscopic reproductive structures.
|
|
Asura buxa
|
Panijhora, West Bengal
|
Named after the Buxa Tiger Reserve region where it was found. Identified through its specific wing bands and "chaetotaxy" (the arrangement of tiny body scales/bristles).
|
- Ecological Importance - "Bio-indicators" - Lichen moths are of high interest to environmental scientists because of their specific life cycle.
- Dietary Niche - As caterpillars, these moths feed almost exclusively on lichens.
- Environmental Sensors - Lichens are highly sensitive to air pollution. Therefore, the health and population of these moths serve as a natural indicator of air quality and the overall health of fragile mountain ecosystems.
- Ecosystem Role - They contribute to nutrient cycling and act as a food source for other high-altitude predators.
- Taxonomic Milestone - Along with these two new species, they also recorded 7 other lichen moth species for the first time in India.
- Biodiversity Hotspot - The Eastern Himalayas (Sikkim and North Bengal) continue to be a primary focus for discovering "lesser-known" insect groups, which are vital for understanding complex ecosystem functioning.
Reference
Telangana Today | Discover of two new moth species
