Archive · 7 Jun 2025
New Parasitic Wasp Species Discovered in Chandigarh
Scientists have found a new type of tiny wasp in India, called Losgna occidentalis.
This is exciting because it's been a long time since this type of wasp was last seen in India.
The new wasp was found in Chandigarh, which is a first for the city.
These wasps are special because they lay their eggs inside other insects.
The discovery reminds us how important it is to study different plants and animals and how we all must work together to understand and protect our planet's diverse life.
The find also shows that even in cities, there are still many unknown species waiting to be discovered.
A new species of parasitic wasp, 'Losgna occidentalis,' has been discovered in Chandigarh, India.
This marks the first time a new insect species has been formally described from Chandigarh.
The discovery is significant as the Losgna genus had not been recorded in India since 1965.
The new species' name reflects its westernmost known occurrence.
The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity research and international collaboration.
- Who
- Researchers, including Karmannye Chaudhary, discovered the wasp.
- What
- The rediscovery and description of a new species of parasitic wasp, Losgna occidentalis.
- When
- The specimen was collected during winter 2023-24; the study was published in 2025.
- Where
- Chandigarh, India.
- Why
- To document and understand India's biodiversity.
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Scientists at the Wildlife Institute of India are enthusiastic about the discovery, highlighting the importance of taxonomic work and international collaboration in documenting biodiversity.
- Species Name
- Losgna occidentalis
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Location of Discovery
- Chandigarh, India
- Collection Period
- Winter 2023-24
- Type of Insect
- Parasitic wasp
- Published in
- Zootaxa
- Time since last discovery
- 60 years