Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new soil-dwelling termite species, Pseudocapritermes novus, in the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, West Bengal. This discovery, confirmed via morphological analysis and DNA barcoding of the mitochondrial COI gene, increases the number of known Pseudocapritermes species in India to five.
Taxonomic and Morphological Profile
- Family: Belongs to Termitidae, the world’s largest termite family.
- Habitat: Found in the humid, organic-rich forest litter of Chapramari (an extension of Gorumara National Park, located between the Murti and Jaldhaka rivers).
- Key Identification Features:
- Asymmetrical Mandibles: Features a twisted left mandible for rapid snapping defense and a blade-like right mandible.
- Head/Labrum: Rectangular, hairy head capsule with a distinct fontanelle position and a deeply concave labrum with elongated, pointed lateral tips.
- Ecological Significance: Acts as an “ecosystem engineer” by ingesting leaf litter and humus, which enhances soil porosity, nitrogen fixation, and nutrient cycling.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- ZSI: Established in 1916 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC); the apex body for faunal research in India.
- Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary: Declared a sanctuary in 1998, known for megafauna like Asian Elephants and Indian Bison (Gaur).
- DNA Barcoding: Uses a standardized genetic marker (COI gene) to facilitate precise species identification.
- Eusociality: Termites are eusocial insects with a strict caste system (reproductives, soldiers, workers) and cooperative behavior.