Three New Moth Species

Three New Moth Species Latest News

Researchers recently identified three previously unknown species of moths that had remained hidden in the high-altitude landscapes of the Himalayas.

About Three New Moth Species

• The three species are Gelechia bilobuncusa, Gelechia adi, and Istrianis ladakhensis.
• They were discovered in the high-altitude landscapes of the Himalayas. 
• Gelechia bilobuncusa:
  • It was found in Himachal Pradesh. 
  • Its name is a scientific nod to the unique bilobed shape of its uncus, a part of the male genitalia. 
  • It is characterised by pale brown wings with irregularly scattered black scales.
• Gelechia adi:
  • It was discovered in the Ramsing area of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • It is named in honour of the local Adi tribe inhabiting the Upper Siang district. 
  • It is visually distinct, featuring ivory-white forewings interrupted by a dramatic black streak across the base and triangular spots.
• Istrianis ladakhensis:
  • It is named after its type locality in Ladakh. 
  • This moth is adapted to the high-altitude environment, sporting light brown wings mottled with dark grey, white, and orange scales, distinguishing it from its closest relatives in the genus.

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What are Moths?

• Moths are insects that belong to the order Lepidoptera, which they share with butterflies.
• There are around 160,000 known species of moths, far outnumbering butterfly species.
• Highly adapted, they live in all but polar habitats. 
• Moths vary greatly in size, ranging in wingspan from about 4 mm (0.16 inch) to nearly 30 cm (about 1 foot).
• They often have duller colors compared to butterflies, which helps with camouflage. Some, like the luna moth or atlas moth, are vividly colored.
• Moth antennae are often feathery, unlike the thin and clubbed antennae of butterflies.
• Most moths are active at night, but some are diurnal.
• The larvae and adults of most moth species are plant eaters.

Source: RM