CAPE TOWN, Feb. 16 (Xinhua) -- Scientists have identified several insect species previously unknown to science in South Africa's Richtersveld National Park, South African Government News Agency (SA News) reported on Monday.
According to SA News, the discovery was made by Dr. Massimo Meregalli from Italy and Dr. Roman Borovec from the Czech Republic.
These respected entomologists recently published their research on flightless weevils found in remote parts of the park. These tiny insects live in the soil, hidden under shrubs, and mostly come out at night, making them very hard to find and study. Therefore, their discovery required meticulous fieldwork in the Richtersveld's challenging environment.
SA News quoted a statement by South African National Parks (SANParks) as saying, "With the support and guidance of Richtersveld National Park Nursery Curator Pieter van Wyk, the researchers explored the remote Armmanshoek Valley, an area not previously surveyed for soil insects."
"Their efforts resulted in the identification of multiple new species, further confirming the Richtersveld as a hotspot of endemism and scientific importance," it said.
To honor the park's importance for conservation and SANParks' support for research, the scientists named a newly found group and species "Richtersveldiella sanparkensis."
This is the first insect species to be officially named after SANParks and Richtersveld National Park. The researchers have also previously honored the local culture by naming other groups, Khoisan and Nama, recognizing the long history of connection between the communities and this unique land.
"These discoveries highlight the importance of continued scientific exploration within protected areas and reinforce SANParks' commitment to conserving not only iconic wildlife and landscapes, but also the often-overlooked species that form the foundation of healthy ecosystems," SANParks said.
"The naming of Richtersveldiella sanparkensis stands as a lasting scientific tribute to the Richtersveld and SANParks' ongoing dedication to biodiversity conservation," it added. ■