Context:
In December 2025, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) announced the discovery of a new soil-dwelling micro-arthropod species, Neelus sikkimensis, from the high-altitude regions of Sikkim.
This marks the first record of the genus Neelus in India.
The discovery was published in the Journal of the Entomological Research Society.
Key Highlights of the Discovery
- Species discovered: Neelus sikkimensis
- Type: Soil-dwelling micro-arthropod (springtail)
- Group: Collembola
- Habitat: Soil and moss layers in high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems
- Significance: First Indian record of the genus Neelus
Key Features of Neelus sikkimensis
- Microscopic springtail (Collembola)
- Eyeless, adapted to life in complete darkness
- Lives within soil and moss layers
- Distinctive labral chaetotaxy
- (Unique arrangement of bristles on mouthparts used for species identification)
Ecological Significance
- Springtails (Collembola) play a crucial role in:
- Decomposition of organic matter
- Nutrient cycling
- Maintaining soil fertility and structure
- Act as indicators of soil health and ecosystem stability.
