Pseumenes siangensis:
Entomologists recently discovered a new species of potter wasp from Arunachal Pradesh, named Pseumenes siangensis.
- Pseumenes siangensis is a new species of wasp belonging to the 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 in 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.
