Rare Night Moth Species Unearthed in Western Ghats

Quick Summary

• Scientists have documented the presence of the rare nocturnal moth genus Antitrisuloides in the Western Ghats for the first time.
• The discovery was made at Choolannur Peafowl Sanctuary, Palakkad district, Kerala.
• The species identified is Antitrisuloides catocalina, previously reported only from North-East India, with this specimen belonging to its subspecies Antitrisuloides catocalina cyclica.
• The research provides taxonomic details, including characteristics of male moth and genitalia for easier species identification in future studies.
• This breakthrough was conducted by Joslin Treesa Jacob of Christ College’s Entomo Taxonomy Lab and overseen by Assistant Professor Abhilash Peter. Thier findings were published in the July edition of the international journal Ecology, Habitat & Conservation.

Indian Opinion Analysis
This discovery adds a significant datapoint to India’s biodiversity mapping efforts while underlining Kerala’s biodiversity richness within its protected sanctuaries like Choolannur Peafowl Sanctuary. By documenting a rare moth subspecies for the first time in South India, it emphasizes the untapped potential that India’s ecosystems hold for scientific findings and conservation strategies. Such research not only enriches global understanding but could also deepen domestic ecological stewardship policies based on data-driven decisions.

Read more: The Hindu