New Wasp Species Discovered in Salt Lake

The discovery of a new wasp species named “Nesolynx banabitanae” in Central Park, Salt Lake, has attracted global scientific interest. This finding marks only the seventh wasp species identified in India. The wasp adds new vital information about parasitic relationships and biodiversity within urban ecosystems.

Recent Discovery and Location

Nesolynx banabitanae was found in Central Park, Salt Lake, an urban green space known locally as Banabitan. The discovery was made by a team of entomologists led by Arnob Chakrovorty, Neveen S Gadallah, and Banani Bhattacharjee. Their research focused on the multitrophic interactions within the park’s ecosystem, denoting the complexity of urban biodiversity.

Taxonomy and Classification

The new species belongs to the Eulophidae family. This family is known for its wide range of parasitic wasps. Nesolynx banabitanae is a hyperparasitoid. This means it parasitises other parasitoid wasps rather than directly attacking herbivores or plants. This behaviour adds complexity to ecological food webs.

Ecological Role and Interactions

Nesolynx banabitanae targets the ichneumonid parasitoid Charops aditya. Charops aditya itself parasitises caterpillars of the Common palmfly and Common castor butterflies. Thus, Nesolynx banabitanae occupies a higher trophic level, influencing population dynamics of both parasitoids and their hosts. This hyperparasitism can regulate pest populations indirectly.

Significance of the Discovery

This discovery enriches knowledge of parasitic wasp diversity in India, a region with relatively few recorded species. It marks the importance of urban parks as reservoirs of biodiversity. The findings published in the Korean Society of Applied Entomology journal provide new data for entomological and ecological studies.

Research Methodology

The team conducted extensive fieldwork and laboratory studies to identify the species. They examined the multitrophic relationships involving plants, herbivores, parasitoids, and hyperparasitoids. Molecular and morphological analyses confirmed the novelty of the species.

Implications for Biodiversity and Conservation

The presence of such complex parasitic relationships in urban environments suggests that green spaces support intricate ecological networks. Protecting these habitats is vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services. The discovery may encourage further entomological surveys in urban India.