New study shows 31 amphibian species documented in Karnataka
Highlight:
- The researchers explained that the study is unique in categorizing amphibian species based on the state’s ten agro-climatic zones, offering new insights into species distribution.
- Newly discovered frog species:
- Sphaerotheca varshaabhu and Sphaerotheca Bengaluru were discovered in the dry zone regions of Karnataka.
- Multi-institutional study:
- A unique study documenting 102 amphibian species in Karnataka, with 31 endemic to the state, was conducted by researchers from multiple institutions (Mount Carmel College, Jain University, Yuvaraja’s College, and Zoological Survey of India).
- Study publication:
- The research titled ‘Amphibians of agro-climatic zones of Karnataka’ was published in the Journal Records of the Zoological Survey of India.
- Diversity by zones:
- Highest amphibian diversity was found in the Hilly Zone (89 species), followed by the Southern Transition Zone (24 species) and the Coastal Zone (18 species).
- Conservation concerns:
- The study emphasizes habitat fragmentation as a major threat to amphibians and calls for the conservation of pond and wetland ecosystems in these zones.
- IUCN Red List status:
- Out of 102 species, 4 are critically endangered, 14 endangered, 5 vulnerable, 3 near threatened, 22 least concern, 24 data deficient, and 28 unassessed.
- Future implications:
The study aims to strengthen understanding of amphibian diversity in non-Western Ghats regions, aiding future conservation efforts.
United Nations recognition for Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mela
Highlight:
- Honnavar (North Kannada District): The ‘Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mela’ established in 1934 has been recognized by the United Nations.
- Idagunji Yakshagana Mandal is one of the recognized 58 national organizations of the world.
- The United Nations recognized the Yakshagana heritage, the board’s contribution to the development of the art form, promotion of Yakshagana art, documentation etc.
- For 90 years, the board has been leading activities like Yakshagana performances, training workshops, organization of National Dance Festival every year.
The accreditation of the World Organization has given more moral strength to the work of the Board, said Director of the Board, Keremane Sivananda Hegde.
63 new insect species discovered by NBAIR
Highlight:
- New insect species discovered in Karnataka:
- ICAR-NBAIR, based in Hebbal, Bengaluru, discovered 63 new insect species in Karnataka in 2023-24, enhancing the scientific understanding of agricultural insects in the region.
- Agricultural pest control innovations:
- NBAIR introduced the parasitoid Anagyrus lopezi to control the cassava mealybug in Karnataka.
- The institute also successfully controlled the sorghum millibug, benefiting cassava cultivation in the state.
- Whiteflies affecting cotton in Karnataka were reduced by 85% using gene silencing technology.
- Patents granted to NBAIR:
- NBAIR received five patents in 2023-24, with some innovations specifically benefiting agricultural pest control in Karnataka:
- A method to manage Holotrichia consanguinea, a pest affecting crops in Karnataka.
- A new trap compound (“Dorsa Lure”) for mango fruit flies, relevant to Karnataka’s mango cultivation.
- Technological advancements:
- NBAIR commercialized 47 technologies, including insecticides and pheromones, many of which are used in Karnataka’s agricultural sector.
- Conservation and pest management:
- The new species discoveries and technologies are expected to aid pest control and improve agricultural productivity in Karnataka.
Patents in 2023-24:
- NBAIR received five patents in 2023-24, increasing its total to 10 patents.
- Key patents:
- Method for managing Holotrichia consanguinea (March 2023).
- Alcohol-free plywood laced melon fly attractant (May 2023).
- “Dorsa Lure” compound to improve mango fruit fly traps (November 2023).
- Nano emulsion for pest management (March 2023).
Herbal repellent for tree termites (April 2023).
