Scientists name new wasp species after David Attenborough
Scientists have named a newly identified species of wasp Attenboroughnculus tau in celebration of the legendary naturalist and broadcaster’s 100th birthday, reports BritPanorama.
This wasp has been in the collection of London’s Natural History Museum since 1983, following its discovery in Valdivia province, southern Chile. Its classification comes after a thorough examination that revealed not only its status as a previously unknown species but also as a new genus, indicating a significant discovery in the field of taxonomy.
Gavin Broad, principal curator of insects at the museum, noted the lengthy process that specimens can undergo before classification. “Taxonomic discovery is sometimes really quick — you find something and you describe it right away,” he said. “But sometimes it’s quite slow, and you just work methodically through the collections that other people have accumulated over the years.”
Augustijn De Ketelaere, a volunteer and study coauthor, discovered Attenboroughnculus tau during an assessment of the museum’s ichneumon wasps, which encompasses approximately 25,000 identified species. There is an estimated total of around 75,000 more species yet to be named. This latest identification serves as a reminder of the vast diversity still present in the natural world.
A detailed review of the specimen affirmed its unique characteristics, prompting the need for a new genus designation. “We looked at it, and we had a good look at all its relatives,” Broad explained. “We realized it’s got a combination of characters that meant it wouldn’t fit anywhere. So, we had to describe a new genus to accommodate this lovely little species.”
The wasp is diminutive, measuring just 3.5 millimeters (0.13 of an inch) long, and features a slender, curved abdomen. It belongs to a subfamily of wasps primarily found in Chile, Argentina, Australia, and New Guinea. Broad remarked on the peculiar distribution of these wasps, highlighting their connection to the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. “These little wasps have clung on to what used to be Gondwana, and they’ve probably gone extinct in the rest of the world,” he stated.
An inspiration for many
The practice of naming species, established by Swedish naturalist Carolus Linnaeus in the 1750s through the system of binomial nomenclature, entails selecting a genus and species name. In the case of Attenboroughnculus tau, the genus pays homage to Attenborough, while the species name tau refers to the T-shaped markings on the abdomen.
Taxonomy plays a crucial role in biology and conservation, as unnamed species cannot receive protective measures against extinction. This ongoing shortage of taxonomists exacerbates the backlog of species awaiting classification. Broad mentioned that naming a genus is rather unique. “Naming a genus after somebody is quite special, because a genus is more difficult to find,” he said. “David Attenborough deserves a genus. I think everybody would agree with that.”
Attenborough’s influence has been profound, sparking many to pursue careers in science. He has over 50 species named after him, covering a broad array of life forms. In response to the recent naming, Attenborough expressed his gratitude with a handwritten note, recognizing the significance of this honor as he continues to inspire new generations through his documentaries.
His contributions include some well-known series, such as “Life on Earth” and “The Blue Planet,” which emphasize the importance of ecological conservation. Born on May 8, 1926, in Isleworth, England, Attenborough has just narrated a new series highlighting wildlife in British backyards, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to natural history.
Attenborough’s legacy extends beyond mere recognition; his work underscores the vital need for deeper understanding and appreciation of biodiversity as the world faces increasing environmental challenges.
