Researchers Uncover New Lichen Moth Species in Eastern Himalayan Forests

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India ( ZSI ) have discovered two new species of lichen moths from the eastern Himalayan region, highlighting the rich but still underexplored insect biodiversity of the area.

The newly identified species Caulocera hollowayi and Asura buxa were described by an Indian research team and documented in the international taxonomic journal Zootaxa on March 2. The discovery was made by researchers Navneet Singh , Santosh Singh , and Srishti Bhattacharya , who conducted detailed scientific analysis of the collected specimens.

The species Caulocera hollowayi was identified from specimens collected near Golitar in Sikkim . Researchers distinguished this species through its unique wing patterns, colour bands and specific microscopic body features that differentiate it from previously known moths of the same genus.

The second species, Asura buxa , was discovered from specimens collected at Panijhora in West Bengal . Scientists noted that the moth possesses distinctive colour patterns on its wings along with unique internal anatomical characteristics that confirmed it as a new species.

Researchers conducted a detailed taxonomic study to confirm the discoveries. The identification process involved analysing wing colouration, scale arrangement and specialised reproductive structures, which are crucial features used in insect classification.

Scientists also examined chaetotaxy , the arrangement of tiny bristles and body scales, which further confirmed that the specimens belonged to previously unknown species. These microscopic characteristics are widely used by entomologists to accurately classify insect species.

The research team also reported seven additional species of lichen moths being recorded in India for the first time. According to Dhriti Banerjee , Director of ZSI, such findings significantly expand scientific knowledge of Lepidoptera diversity in the country.

Lichen moths play an important ecological role because their caterpillars feed on lichens , organisms highly sensitive to environmental pollution. Scientists say the presence of these moths can help monitor air quality and overall ecosystem health in fragile mountain regions such as the Himalayas .