Scientists have discovered a new species of cicadas in Meghalaya, India, referred to as “Butterfly Cicadas,” sparking excitement in the field of biodiversity exploration.
Genus Becquartina in India
- The new species, Becquartina bicolor, represents the first record of the genus Becquartina in India.
- This discovery highlights the biodiversity potential of Meghalaya’s ecosystems.
Discovery Process
- Dr. Vivek Sarkar and Mr. Rodeson Thangkhiew independently found the cicadas during their explorations in Meghalaya.
- The collaborative discovery has been documented and published in the journal Zootaxa.
Characteristics of the Species
- The species is named “bicolor” due to the presence of two distinct color forms.
- It appears to be endemic to Garo Hills and Ri Bhoi district.
- The genus Becquartina now comprises seven known species, with this discovery adding to the total count.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the colloquial name given to the newly discovered cicada species in Meghalaya?
- A) Emerald Cicada
- B) Butterfly Cicada
- C) Rainbow Cicada
- D) Jewel Cicada
- Answer: B) Butterfly Cicada
- Who made the discovery of the Butterfly Cicadas in Meghalaya?
- A) Dr. Vivek Sarkar
- B) Mr. Rodeson Thangkhiew
- C) Both A and B
- D) Prof. S.R. Hajong
- Answer: C) Both A and B
- Where was the new cicada species documented for the first time in India?
- A) Assam
- B) Meghalaya
- C) Manipur
- D) Nagaland
- Answer: B) Meghalaya
- What is the significance of the name “bicolor” given to the species?
- A) It has two pairs of wings.
- B) It exhibits two distinct color forms.
- C) It changes color during mating.
- D) It is found in two different habitats.
- Answer: B) It exhibits two distinct color forms.
- In which journal was the collaborative discovery of the Butterfly Cicadas published?
- A) Nature
- B) Science
- C) Zootaxa
- D) National Geographic
- Answer: C) Zootaxa