In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered two previously unknown species of feather mites in the forests of Meghalaya. These mites, identified as Trouessartia thalassina and Proterothrix sibillae, were found on two species of Old World flycatchers: the Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassinus) and the Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae). This discovery adds significant knowledge to the intricate biodiversity of India.
Study Location and Research Team
The study took place in Kharang, East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya. It was led by Ioana Cristina Constantinescu from Romania’s Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History, in collaboration with several researchers, including Costică Adam, Gabriel Bogdan Chișamera, Viorel Dumitru Gavril, Rozalia Motoc, Doru Simon Dobre, Ioana Cobzaru, and D. Khlur B. Mukhim from Lady Keane College, Shillong. Their research findings were published in Acarologia, a leading journal dedicated to acarology.
About Feather Mites
Feather mites are tiny arachnids that inhabit bird feathers and skin. They feed on oils, skin flakes, and organic debris found on the bird’s feathers. Typically, these mites have a symbiotic relationship with the bird, contributing to feather maintenance by removing excess oils and detritus. However, in certain situations, these mites can turn parasitic, causing irritation or damage to the bird’s feathers.
Feather mites are found globally and are transmitted between birds through close contact, particularly during nesting. The diversity of these mites can serve as an important indicator of the health and quality of a bird’s habitat.
Research Methodology
The study involved capturing birds using mist nets, identifying them, and inspecting them for the presence of mites. After the mites were collected for study, the birds were safely released back into the wild, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where were the new species of feather mites discovered?
- A) West Khasi Hills
- B) East Khasi Hills
- C) Nagaland
- D) Assam
Answer: B) East Khasi Hills
- Who led the research team that discovered the new species of feather mites?
- A) Gabriel Bogdan Chișamera
- B) Viorel Dumitru Gavril
- C) Ioana Cristina Constantinescu
- D) D. Khlur B. Mukhim
Answer: C) Ioana Cristina Constantinescu
- What is the primary role of feather mites on birds?
- A) To parasitize and damage feathers
- B) To remove oils and detritus from feathers
- C) To feed on bird blood
- D) To help birds fly
Answer: B) To remove oils and detritus from feathers
- Which journal published the research findings on the new mite species?
- A) Acarologia
- B) Nature
- C) Science
- D) Journal of Wildlife Research
Answer: A) Acarologia
- How were the birds captured for the study?
- A) Trapping with nets
- B) Using bird calls
- C) Luring with food
- D) Using trained falcons
Answer: A) Trapping with nets