New Meadow Katydid Species Discovered in Kashmir

Researchers have discovered three previously unknown species of meadow katydids in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the region’s rich but understudied insect biodiversity. The findings emerged from extensive field surveys conducted across diverse habitats of the Kashmir Valley and adjoining mountain ranges, challenging earlier assumptions that only one species of this genus existed in the region.

Discovery Led by Aligarh Muslim University Team

The study was led by Muzamil Syed Shah along with entomologists from Aligarh Muslim University. The team identified three new species belonging to the genus “Conocephalus”, commonly known as meadow katydids or long-horned grasshoppers. The species have been named “Conocephalus usmanii”, “Conocephalus nagariensis”, and “Conocephalus ganderbali”, each reflecting either the locality of discovery or eminent contributors to Indian entomology.

Role of Kashmir’s Complex Geography

Prior to this research, the mountainous Kashmir region was believed to host only a single “Conocephalus” species. The new findings suggest that the complex topography of the Western Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range has created diverse ecological niches, fostering far greater insect diversity. Researchers surveyed meadows, bushes, and deciduous forests, collecting adult specimens during daytime treks across multiple districts.

Advanced Microscopy Reveals New Species

To confirm the discoveries, the team employed Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), enabling high-resolution analysis of microscopic anatomical features. Particular focus was placed on the stridulatory file, a comb-like row of teeth on the male wings used to produce chirping sounds. Differences in tooth count and body structure established that the specimens represented entirely new species rather than known variants.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• “Conocephalus” belongs to the order Orthoptera, which includes grasshoppers and katydids.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is used to study fine morphological details.
• Kashmir lies within the Western Himalayas, a major global biodiversity hotspot.
• Type specimens are preserved in museums for future taxonomic reference.

Distinct Traits and Wider Significance

“Conocephalus nagariensis”, found in Budgam, has spindle-shaped cerci and a stridulatory file with 34 teeth. “Conocephalus ganderbali”, discovered in Ganderbal, is smaller, with 28 teeth and a distinctive V-shaped abdominal incision. “Conocephalus usmanii” has an elongated abdominal plate and 36 teeth. The study also recorded species previously unknown in Kashmir, indicating the region’s role as a corridor for insect migration and evolution. Type specimens have been deposited at the Museum of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, for long-term scientific reference.