What is Pseumenes siangensis?
05-10-2024
07:26 AM
1 min read
Overview:
Entomologists recently discovered a new species of potter wasp from Arunachal Pradesh, named Pseumenes siangensis.
About Pseumenes siangensis:
- It is a new species of wasp belonging to genus Pseumenes.
- The genus Pseumenes belongs to the subfamily Eumeninae, commonly called potter wasps.
- It is primarily distributed across the Oriental region.
- These are solitary wasps identified with their construction of small, pot-like mud structures that they use as nests for their larvae.
- Around 3,795 species of these wasps have been described across 205 genera.
- India has previously reported only one species of the genus, making the recent discovery of Pseumenes siangensis “a significant addition” to the country’s wasp diversity.
- Pseumenes siangensis was discovered from Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, in the Eastern Himalayas.
- It is named after Siang Valley where it was found.
- At about 30.2 mm in length, the new species differs from others in having specific morphological features and colour patterns.
- It has critical role in controlling pest populations as the larvae primarily feed on caterpillars and other insects.
Q1: What is entomology?
It is a branch of zoology dealing with the scientific study of insects. The Greek word entomon, meaning “notched,” refers to the segmented body plan of the insect. The zoological categories of genetics, taxonomy, morphology, physiology, behaviour, and ecology are included in this field of study.
Source: New potter wasp species discovered in Eastern Himalayas