What is Taeniogonalos dhritiae?

About Taeniogonalos dhritiae

• It is a new species of wasp discovered in the Ranipuram Hills area in the Western Ghats of Kerala.
• It is named after Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, a noted entomologist.
• It is a species in the family Trigonalyidae.
• While there are about 122 described species of Trigonalyidae in 16 genes worldwide, the knowledge of Indian Trigonalyidae is scanty, with only eight described species till date.
• These insects are hyperparasitoids (parasites of https://www.deccanherald.com/environment/wildlife/new-species-of-wasp-discovered-in-kerala-2762238 ) where females lay eggs on other parasitic wasps.
• The Trigonalyidae family is found in abundance in parts of Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia.

Key Facts about Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

• ZSI is a premier research organization functioning under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. 
• ZSI has been actively involved since its inception in 1916 in the survey, exploration, and research leading to the expansion of our knowledge on the immensely rich faunal diversity of our country.
• ZSI headquarters is located in Kolkata and have 16 regional centres spread across the country.

Q1) What is a Parasite?

A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism (called the host) and benefits at the expense of the host. The parasite derives its nourishment and often shelter from the host, and in the process, it may harm or weaken the host. Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism (the parasite) benefits while the other (the host) is harmed.

Source: New species of wasp discovered in Kerala

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