A new species of parasitic wasp has been discovered in Assam’s Dibru-Saikhowa National Park by researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).

Researchers Rupam Debnath and K. Rajmohana discovered the tiny insect and named it Oxyserphus narendrani. Measuring just 3.3 millimetres in length, the newly identified species belongs to the Proctotrupidae family.

The insect was collected in November 2024 using a yellow pan trap, a simple method commonly used to collect small insects. Following detailed examination under a microscope, researchers confirmed that the specimen represented a previously undocumented species.

The new species has been named in honour of the late Dr T. C. Narendran, who made significant contributions to the study of parasitic wasps.

The discovery highlights the rich and largely unexplored insect diversity of Assam’s natural ecosystems. Researchers believe that findings such as this could encourage further studies into the region’s lesser-known insect species and contribute to a better understanding of India’s biodiversity.

The discovery of Oxyserphus narendrani also adds to the scientific significance of Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna.