New insect species named in honour of SANParks and the Richtersveld
Researchers have discovered several new flightless weevil species in Richtersveld National Park, naming one Richtersveldiella sanparkensis in honour of SANParks, highlighting the park’s exceptional biodiversity and the importance of continued scientific exploration in protected areas. Seen on the left is the Richtersveldiella sanparkensis, and on the right the Nama vanwyki.
Image: SanParks
The Richtersveld National Park has once again demonstrated its extraordinary ecological value with the discovery of several insect species previously unknown to science.
Internationally respected entomologists Dr. Massimo Meregalli of Italy and Dr. Roman Borovec of the Czech Republic have published new research detailing flightless weevils collected in remote parts of the park. These soil-dwelling insects, which live discreetly beneath shrubs and emerge mainly at night, are notoriously difficult to study. Their discovery requires painstaking fieldwork across rugged terrain, conditions for which the Richtersveld is well known.
With the support and guidance of nursery curator Pieter van Wyk, the researchers explored the remote Armmanshoek Valley, an area that had not previously been surveyed for soil insects. Their work led to the identification of multiple new species, reinforcing the park’s reputation as a hotspot of endemism and scientific importance.
In recognition of the conservation significance of both the park and the organisation that manages it, the scientists named a newly described genus and species South African National Parks Richtersveldiella sanparkensis. It is the first known insect species formally named in honour of SANParks and Richtersveld National Park.
The researchers have also previously acknowledged the region’s deep cultural heritage by naming other genera Khoisan and Nama, paying tribute to the historical connections between local communities and this ancient landscape.
The findings underscore the importance of continued scientific exploration within protected areas. They also highlight SANParks’ ongoing commitment to conserving not only iconic wildlife and dramatic desert scenery, but also the smaller and often overlooked species that form the foundation of healthy ecosystems.
The naming of Richtersveldiella sanparkensis stands as a lasting scientific tribute to the Richtersveld and to SANParks’ dedication to safeguarding South Africa’s biodiversity for future generations.