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Neelus sikkimensis: New Springtail Species Found in Sikkim

29 December 20251 min read
ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGYNeelussikkimensis: NewSpringtail SpeciesFound in Sikkim29 December 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

Zoological Survey of India scientists reported a new soil micro-arthropod in December 2025, published in the Journal of the Entomological Research Society.

Key facts

  • Group: Collembola (springtails); lives in soil and moss of Himalayan heights.
  • Microscopic and eyeless, with distinctive labral chaetotaxy, a bristle pattern on mouthparts used for identification.

Ecological role

  • Break down organic matter and cycle nutrients in the soil.
  • Maintain soil fertility and structure.
  • Signal soil health.

Exam angle

  • Body: ZSI; place: Sikkim; genus: Neelus; group: springtails.

Test yourself

1. Neelus sikkimensis belongs to which group of soil organisms?

The notes call it a springtail in the group Collembola.

2. Which organisation announced the discovery of Neelus sikkimensis?

ZSI scientists announced the discovery.

3. What makes the discovery of Neelus sikkimensis notable for India?

It marks the first Indian record of the genus Neelus.

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 27 December 2025 (19 topics).

All topics of the dayDay quizDecember 2025

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