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Rare Fireflies Discovered in India's Nilgiris, One Named After Indigenous Tribe
9 Oct
Summary
- Two new non-luminous firefly species found in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu
- One species named after the indigenous Kurumba tribe
- Total Lamellipalpodes species now at 14, with 5 found in India
In a significant discovery, researchers have identified two new species of non-luminous fireflies in the Nilgiris region of Tamil Nadu, India. The findings, published in the International Journal of Tropical Insect Science, describe the new species Lamellipalpodes kurumba and Lamellipalpodes debprasama.
The Lamellipalpodes genus is found in India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand, but prior to this study, only two species were known to exist in India. With the latest additions, the total number of Lamellipalpodes species now stands at 14, with five being found within the country's borders.
Notably, one of the new species, Lamellipalpodes kurumba, has been named in honor of the indigenous Kurumba tribe of the Nilgiris. The researchers say this is a recognition of the Kurumbas' longstanding efforts in protecting the region's flora and fauna. The other species, Lamellipalpodes debprasama, was named as a tribute to the parents of the researchers.
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The discovery of these rare, non-luminous fireflies highlights the rich biodiversity of the Nilgiris and the importance of continued ecological studies in the region. Experts warn that threats such as habitat loss and pesticide use pose significant challenges to the survival of these and other insect species.
