New Singapore Plant Bug: campylomma singapura Discovered at NUS
Singapore — October 27,2024 —
A new species of plant bug,*Campylomma singapura*,has been discovered on the National University of Singapore (NUS) campus,marking a important find for local biodiversity. The research, published in *Zootaxa*, details the identification of this previously unknown mirid. This remarkable finding underscores the presence of rich insect life in a highly urbanized city; read on.
A New “Singapore Citizen” Discovered: Meet Campylomma singapura
Singapore – In a remarkable find, researchers have identified a new species of plant bug right in the heart of the National University of Singapore (NUS) campus. This tiny insect, named campylomma singapura, has earned its place among the diverse flora and fauna of the island nation.
The Discovery
The discovery, detailed in a research paper published March 24 in the science journal Zootaxa, was announced by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum at NUS’ Faculty of Science on April 7. The paper is titled “Two Cryptic New Species Of The Plant Bug Genus Campylomma Recently Discovered In Japan And Singapore.”
The team behind this discovery includes:
- Dr.Hwang Wei Song, senior curator of insecta at the museum
- Dr. Tomohide Yasunaga, a world-renowned expert on mirids and research associate at the American Museum of Natural History
- Yap Ee Hean, a self-taught local naturalist
The Habitat and Diet
Campylomma singapura was found on a sea hibiscus tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) near the Ventus building in Kent Ridge Drive. These mirids, typically around 2mm in length, have also been observed feeding on thrips, small insects commonly associated with flowers.
The Identification Process
Identifying the new species was no easy task. According to Dr. Hwang, the process involved delicately dissecting and meticulously comparing the 14 collected specimens with other known species.
This would not have been possible without dr. Yasunaga’s deep knowledge and experience with mirids from this region.
Dr. Hwang Wei Song, senior curator of insecta at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
the initial discovery occurred in August 2023, during a survey of local plants on the NUS campus.Further samples were collected in 2024 from sea hibiscus plants across the island, confirming the existence of a previously unknown species.
A “Remarkable” Discovery
Dr. Hwang hailed the discovery as remarkable
, emphasizing the species’ adaptation to local environmental changes while maintaining its close relationship with its host plant. He also noted that the species had remained undetected until now.
Naming the mirid species is a fitting tribute as Singapore celebrates its 60th year of independence (SG60).As of 2015, at least 95 species have been named after Singapore, including molluscs, plants, and bacteria.
Even for a highly urbanised city, there is still a rich biodiversity living amongst us, and the resilience of our local insect species deserves some recognition. This species thus qualifies for a ‘Singaporean citizenship’ in our opinion.
Dr. Hwang Wei Song
Future Research
The researchers are not stopping here. Dr. Hwang mentioned that they are already planning to investigate another group of mirids.
This region still contains an immense amount of insect diversity but remains highly understudied and under-resourced to address the issue at hand.
Dr. Hwang Wei Song
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mirid?
Mirids are small terrestrial insects that typically feed on plants.Some, like those from the genus Campylomma, also feed on insects and are used as biological control agents.
where was Campylomma singapura discovered?
It was discovered on a sea hibiscus tree near the Ventus building at the National University of Singapore (NUS).
Why is this discovery important?
It highlights the rich biodiversity present even in urban environments and underscores the resilience of local insect species.
