Paraparatrechina neela: A New Ant Species

Indian researchers have made a significant discovery by identifying a new ant species, Paraparatrechina neela, in the remote Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.

About Paraparatrechina neela:

1. Discovery: Paraparatrechina neela is a newly discovered ant species found in the Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Classification: This new species belongs to the rare genus Paraparatrechina, and its unique blue color has led to its name, "neela," which means "blue" in many Indian languages.
3. Historical Significance: Its discovery marks the first new species of Paraparatrechina in 121 years since the description of the only previously known species, P. aseta (Forel, 1902), in the Indian subcontinent.
4. Features:
   1. It is a relatively small ant, measuring less than 2 mm in total length.
   2. Its body exhibits a predominantly metallic blue color, with the exception of its antennae, mandibles, and legs.
   3. The head is subtriangular in shape, featuring large eyes and a triangular mouthpart (mandible) with five teeth.
   4. The distinct metallic blue color differentiates this species from others in its genus.

Antennae: Sensory Organs of Insects:

1. Antennae, or singular antenna, are paired sensory organs located on the heads of insects.
2. They are highly sensitive to touch, smell, and in some species, sound.
3. Antennae comprise several segments, and their form varies across different groups of insects.

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