Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs
Prelims Bits
Context:
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has recently discovered a new species of beetle, named Clinidium lalitae, in the Talle Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh.
Naming:
This species is named in honour of Dr. Lalita Ray Chaudhury, a renowned coleopterologist and former ZSI scientist, as a tribute to her contributions to the field of entomology.
Habitat:
The beetle was discovered in the Talle Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is known for its rich biodiversity and is a hotspot for endemic flora and fauna.
Ecological Role:
The Clinidium lalitae beetle belongs to the Rhysodinae subfamily and is a part of a rare group of ground beetles that thrive on forest floors. These beetles are significant for nutrient cycling and promoting soil health, making them crucial to the local ecosystem.