Pune: Scientists from the western regional centre of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Pune have discovered a new species of forester moth in Karnataka’s Kali Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghats, marking the first addition to the genus Mimeusemia in nearly 30 years.The newly identified species, named Mimeusemia kali Kalawate & László, 2026, was described in the international journal Zootaxa. The study was led by Aparna Kalawate of ZSI, Pune in collaboration with Gyula M. László, senior curator at the Natural History Museum, London.This discovery highlights how much of India’s insect diversity still remains undocumented, even in relatively well-studied groups such as moths, Kalawate said.The genus Mimeusemia belongs to the forester moth group within the Noctuidae family. These colourful moths are primarily active during the day, although some species are also seen at dusk and may occasionally be attracted to light.Researchers said Mimeusemia kali is distinct from closely related species because of its unique physical characteristics, reproductive structures and genetic features. Phylogenetic analyses also confirmed its status as a separate species.“This is the first major taxonomic addition to the genus since 1995 and provides important new information on the evolution and distribution of these moths,” László said in the study.The discovery is significant because the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage region and one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, continue to yield species previously unknown to science. Researchers said the finding underscores the need for continued biodiversity surveys and taxonomic research in the region.The study also presents the most comprehensive review of the genus to date, recognising 30 taxa worldwide, including 23 species and seven subspecies. It provides updated classification details, distribution records and a map of all known species localities.India has six species of Mimeusemia including the new find which strengthens the importance of the Western Ghats in understanding the diversity and biogeography of these little-known moths.Scientists noted that moths play a vital ecological role as pollinators, herbivores and food sources for birds, bats, reptiles and other animals.Since many species are sensitive to environmental changes, they are also considered important indicators of ecosystem health.Kalawate said, “Every species documented adds to our understanding of ecological processes and strengthens conservation efforts. Discoveries such as Mimeusemia kali demonstrate why taxonomic research remains essential for biodiversity conservation.”
