New Ant Species Discovered in Guwahati’s Garbhanga Forest

A newly identified ant species discovered in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati has highlighted the rich but often overlooked biodiversity of urban-adjacent forest patches. The finding underscores that even forests near rapidly expanding cities can still harbour undocumented and scientifically significant wildlife.

Discovery of Polyrhachis garbhangaensis

The species has been named “Polyrhachis garbhangaensis”, after the forest where it was found, and belongs to the rare mucronata group of spiny ants. Its formal description was published on January 30 in the international journal “Asian Myrmecology”. The discovery was led by “Ankita Sharma” from the Animal Behaviour and Cognition Programme at the “National Institute of Advanced Studies”, Bengaluru, under the supervision of “Anindya Sinha”.

Rare Group and Assam’s Ant Diversity

According to the researchers, the ant belongs to a highly specialised and uncommon lineage. It is only the third species from the mucronata group ever recorded in India. While the country has over 70 known species of “Polyrhachis” ants, Assam has emerged as a major centre of diversity, with 21 species documented so far, reflecting the ecological richness of the region.

Urbanisation and Conservation Insights

Specimens were first collected in August 2023 during field surveys in the 117-square-kilometre Garbhanga Reserve Forest, which serves as a green corridor linking Guwahati to the nearby Rani Reserve Forest. The discovery emerged from research examining the impact of rapid urban growth on ant and spider communities. Researchers emphasised that such peripheral forests are often dismissed as degraded, yet they can support rare and unknown species, reinforcing the need for their protection.

Important Facts for Exams

• Garbhanga Reserve Forest acts as a green corridor near Guwahati.
• “Polyrhachis” is a genus of spiny ants found mainly in Asia.
• Urban-adjacent forests can harbour undocumented biodiversity.
• Ant diversity is a key indicator of ecosystem health.

Distinct Features and Ecological Interactions

Measuring about 5.6 mm in length, the Assamese Spiny Ant is visually distinctive, with a bright yellow-orange abdomen unlike its typically black relatives. Curved body spines are believed to offer protection from predators. Researchers also recorded an ant-mimicking spider in the same habitat, suggesting predator–prey dynamics and mimicry play an important role in shaping forest ecosystems. The findings collectively highlight both the scientific value and conservation importance of Guwahati’s remaining green spaces.