12 Kolkata: Scientists from Kolkata-headquartered Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) made a significant discovery with the identification of a new species of Collembola, a soil-dwelling micro-arthropod, in Bihar. This finding highlights the rich biodiversity of Collembola in the region and provides new insights into its interaction with soil ecosystems.
The newly discovered species, Cyphoderus bihariensis, was named after the state. The discovery was made by a team from ZSI's Apterygota section, led by Guru Pada Mandal, along with Koushik Kumar Roy and Kusumendra Kumar Suman. Their research is set to be published in the upcoming issue of the Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics.
Dhriti Banerjee, director of ZSI, said, "Collembola play a major role in soil health, though their importance is often overlooked. They contribute to humus development, nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and overall soil monitoring."
The new species is characterised by its minute body size, absence of eyes, and the presence of a furcula—a ventral abdominal appendage that acts as a jumping organ. Other distinguishing features include feathered dental scales, a multi-toothed mucro, and a unique chaetotaxy (arrangement of body chaetae). Notably, Cyphoderus bihariensis was classified within the ‘multidentati' species group, making this the first recorded instance of this group in India.
"This finding enriches our understanding of Collembola diversity in India. The genus Cyphoderus currently comprises 86 species worldwide, and with this addition, India now has 10 documented species. Continued research is crucial to further explore this diversity and its vital role in soil ecosystems," said Mandal.