What Is The Number Of Insect Species In India?

India has a diverse range of insect species, with an estimated 63, 760 species, including 61, 375 endemic species. The country is listed 12th among the mega-biodiverse nations in the world with a BioD score of 0. 46 on the diversity index. With 23. 39 of its geographical area under forest and tree cover, India is rich in biodiversity. A 2020 Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) faunal survey reported 102, 718 species of fauna, with 557 new species, including 407 n. insects and stick insects belonging to 391 genera and 7 families known globally. 99 of these species are endemic.

The diversity of insects is greater in the northeastern states, where the 15 deadliest insects found in India are the honey bees. These dangerous Indian insects have the ability to kill humans and animals due to the high amount of venom in their bodies. According to scientists, 40 of insect species are likely to become extinct globally in the coming years. Indian entomologists agree that India is already witnessing a slump in insect species. As of December 2019, insect species in India numbered 65, 466, but this is a conservative estimate. The likely figure is at least 4 to 5 times higher.

India has 66741 species of insects (including Collembola, Protura, Diplura and other groups) and 6134 species of arachnids. Out of nearly 59, 353 species of insects so far known from India, about 20, 717 species are endemic. Hemiptera (True Bugs) is an order of insects containing 50, 000-80, 000 species worldwide, including cicadas, aphids, planthoppers, and leafhoppers.

In India, about 61, 000 species have been recorded, with about 20, 000 insect species being endemic to the country. Many new species of insects are being discovered, and India has 6. 13 percent of total species recorded in Phylum Arthropoda.

What Is The Most Common Bug In India?

Cockroaches are common insects prevalent in households worldwide, particularly in India. Among the deadliest insects found in India is the Asian Giant Hornet, known for its potent sting and toxicity. Bees can also pose a threat, especially when disturbed, as they tend to attack in swarms. Dengue fever, a serious disease spread by the Aedes mosquito, remains endemic in India, with year-round cases reported. Probergrothius sanguinolens, a bug that feeds on various seeds and decomposing matter, is also notable in the region.

Common mosquito species in India include Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex mosquitoes. The term 'cacarootch' originated in English around 1624, describing this insect. Media related to Indian insects can be found on Wikimedia Commons, which includes various categories and a substantial number of species documented by researchers. During the rainy season, many insects play vital roles as pollinators and decomposers. Summer brings out a variety of buzzing insects, including venomous species that invade homes.

India is home to a significant number of insect species, with ongoing research by field scientists uncovering new findings. Notable insects include silverfish, springtails, locusts, and various butterflies, the latter being particularly valued for ornamental use. India's biodiversity includes approximately 66, 741 insect species, reflecting a rich and varied ecosystem essential for nutrient cycles and ecological balance.

Why Are Insects Dangerous In India?

India harbors a diverse array of insects, including many harmful species. While most insects are small and generally non-threatening, a few possess potent venom that can be fatal to humans and animals. These dangerous insects contribute significantly to health risks, agricultural damage, and environmental issues. Invasive species, like locusts, threaten agricultural productivity, with the UN warning of severe risks due to locust swarms, marking the worst invasion in 26 years. Infestations, such as the Mupli beetle in Kerala and yellow crazy ants in Tamil Nadu, disrupt local communities and could be exacerbated by climate change.

Despite their small size, some Indian insects pose substantial threats, often more serious than snakes. Mosquitoes are notorious for spreading diseases like malaria, Chikungunya, and various viral infections, leading to millions of annual casualties. Other venomous insects, including several wasp species, pose a significant risk due to their aggressive nature and ability to sting multiple times, increasing the potential for harmful encounters.

Natural insect repellents have been used effectively to combat pests, and they are crucial for protecting human health, especially in regions with high disease incidence. These insects not only affect human health through direct attacks but also serve as vectors for serious diseases. Overall, the complex relationship between India’s insect population and public health necessitates continued vigilance and effective management strategies to mitigate risks associated with these tiny but potentially deadly creatures.

How Many World Species Are There In India?

India, a megadiverse country with only 2. 4% of the world's land area, harbors 7-8% of all recorded species, including over 45, 000 plant species and around 91, 000 animal species, amounting to approximately 96, 000 species in total. Insects dominate, making up about 70% of the recorded fauna, with 63, 423 species documented. Notably, India is home to 75% of the world's tiger population and 60% of Asian elephants. The nation's biological diversity is further emphasized by the presence of 172 globally threatened animal species, which constitute 2.

9% of the world's threatened species. India features around 103, 258 faunal species and 55, 048 floral species across its 10 biogeographic zones. A significant portion of this diversity is endemic, with 28, 948 faunal species endemic to India. Moreover, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), India has documented around 783 species of freshwater fish, 223 of which are endemic. Despite its relatively small land area, India stands out globally for its rich biodiversity, illustrating the significant ecological value of its varied climates and ecosystems.

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) contributes to documenting this vast array of species, highlighting that over 70% of recorded species are animals, while plants make up about 22%. Overall, India is recognized as one of the 17 mega-diversity nations, contributing substantially to the global biological heritage.

How Many Insect Species Are There In India?

India is home to approximately 63, 760 insect species, with about 21, 166 being endemic. Scientists predict that globally, 40 percent of insect species face potential extinction in the near future, and Indian entomologists confirm a decline in local insect populations. The northeastern states of India exhibit significant insect diversity, representing a small but notable portion of global faunal diversity. The country encompasses almost 7 percent of the world's insect diversity despite occupying only 2 percent of its land area.

Within the Phylum Arthropoda, India holds 6. 13 percent of known species. So far, over one million insect species have been documented, though estimates suggest the actual figure may reach around 5. 5 million species worldwide. Entomologists believe there are over 10 quintillion insects alive at any moment across the globe. India's insect collection at the National Faunal Information Centre (NFIC) includes 31, 40 preserved specimens, 5, 000 slides, and various boxed collections.

Currently, 66, 741 insect species and 6, 134 arachnids have been recorded in India, comprising about 6. 5 percent of global fauna. India’s insect diversity is remarkable, with nearly one-third being endemic species. Notably, the Hemiptera order includes 50, 000 - 80, 000 species globally. Recent assessments reported 746 insects collected from different locations, emphasizing the ecological variability of the country's fauna and the increasing concerns over potential extinctions.

How Many Species Of Animals Are In India?

India is a megadiverse country housing a remarkable array of wildlife and flora, boasting over 102, 718 species of fauna and 55, 048 flora species documented. Among these, 39 mammal species, 72 bird species, 17 reptile species, 3 amphibian species, and 2 fish species are considered vulnerable and endangered. India is recognized as home to 7. 6% of the world's mammal population, 14. 7% of amphibians, 6% of birds, and 6. 2% of reptiles. The country hosts 75% of the global tiger population and 60% of Asia's tiger population.

A 2020 survey by the Zoological Survey of India cataloged 557 new species, enhancing the understanding of its biodiversity. Additionally, the National Wildlife Database provides comprehensive data on conservation status, habitats, and protected areas. Notable animals include the tiger, elephant, rhino, lion, peacock, snow leopard, and monkeys. India occupies only 2. 4% of the world's land area, yet it contributes to 7-8% of global biodiversity.

In 2023, India recognized 641 new species, bringing attention to the vibrant biodiversity that continues to thrive in various ecosystems, ranging from forests to wetlands. With an estimated 96, 000 species, including a significant number of undiscovered species, India's ecological landscape continues to be a rich source of discovery and conservation efforts.

What Is The Giant Bug In India?

Lethocerus indicus, or the giant water bug, is popular as an edible insect in Northeast India, particularly in Assam and Manipur. India hosts a diverse range of ant species, including small red ants that are hazardous to humans and pets, commonly found in gardens and farmland. Among insects, stick insects are notable for their length, while the extinct order Meganisoptera featured large dragonfly-like creatures. The giant water bugs belong to the family Belostomatidae, known for various regional names, including toe-biters and electric-light bugs. The Asian Giant Hornet, one of the most venomous insects, poses a significant threat in India, with social bees like Indian Honeybees able to swarm when provoked. Scorpions, such as the giant black Indian scorpion and the Indian red scorpion, are also among India’s most dangerous insects, primarily located in Maharashtra. Notably elongated stick insects can reach lengths of 30 cm, with branch-like body parts. The Asian Giant Hornet, identified as the world’s largest hornet, is known for its lethal sting. The giant water bug, specifically Lethocerus patruelis, is native to regions from southeastern Europe to Burma, being a top predator in fishless waters. The defining characteristic of hemipteran insects, to which giant water bugs belong, is their specialized piercing mouthparts. Thus, while many insects in India can be harmful or hazardous, some, like the giant water bug, hold culinary and therapeutic significance.

Is India A Mega Diversity Country?

India is one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, which collectively harbor 70% of the planet's biodiversity. Despite comprising only 2. 4% of the global land area, India is home to an astounding 7-8% of all known species, including approximately 91, 000 animal species and 45, 500 plant species. This remarkable biodiversity is attributed to India's diverse climates, ecosystems, and unique geographic features.

Key bio-diverse hotspots in India include the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas, both of which contribute significantly to the country's rich biodiversity. India boasts a variety of ecosystems that support a wide array of flora and fauna. It hosts 410 species of mammals and 408 species of reptiles, highlighting its ecological significance.

The term 'megadiverse' denotes countries with a large number of species in their ecosystems. In addition to the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas, India is recognized for several biodiversity hotspots, including the Indo-Burma region and Sundaland, which includes the Nicobar Islands.

Overall, India stands as a vital center of global biodiversity. With its critical role in supporting a vast array of plant and animal life, India exemplifies the concept of megadiversity, being classified among the leading nations for biodiversity conservation. The presence of significant endemic species further underscores its importance in global ecological health and conservation efforts.

How Many Moth Species Are There In India?

Moth fauna in the Indo-Pacific region is diverse, with a significant presence in India, estimated to host around 12, 000 moth species. Among these, approximately 21, 166 insect species are endemic, highlighting India's rich biodiversity (Sharma and Ramamurthy, 2010). Alucitidae, Bombycidae, Brachodidae, Brahmaeidae, Choreutidae, Cosmopterigidae, Cossidae, and Crambidae are notable families represented.

A comprehensive library with over 45, 000 reference images of more than 3, 025 species and 200 life cycles serves as a valuable resource for understanding their distribution and seasonal patterns. The Biodiversity Atlas - India acts as a platform for collecting and analyzing biodiversity data.

Research indicates that there are approximately 1, 400 butterfly species in India, while the moths exceed 12, 000, including potentially thousands yet to be described. Contributions from significant assessments, like those at Tale Wildlife Sanctuary, have enhanced understanding of moth diversity and habitats.

In Kerala, 844 moth species belonging to 34 families were documented, while a collection effort between 2012 and 2020 yielded a checklist of 338 moth species, showcasing the extensive efforts to catalog them. The Lepidoptera section of biodiversity research shows that moths constitute roughly 85% of all known Lepidoptera in India. Globally, around 127, 000 moth species exist, with over 5, 000 recorded in India, reflecting the critical ecological roles these nocturnal insects play within their ecosystems (Chandra 2007; Paul et al., 2016; AA Dar, 2021).

Which Is The Largest Insect In India?

Arachnacris katydids and Tropidacris grasshoppers are the largest insects, measuring approximately 12–15 cm (4. 7–5. 9 in) in length and 23–27. 5 cm (9. 1–10. 8 in) in wingspan. Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) are commonly encountered insects. The Belostomatidae family, known as giant water bugs or toe-biters, includes Lethocerus patruelis, found in southeastern Europe to South Asia, and represents the largest species in Europe. The National Insect Museum in Bengaluru showcases the world's largest moth, longest insect, and smallest wasp, alongside an extensive collection of ants and butterflies.

Additionally, the National Forest Insect Collection (NFIC) houses over 45, 000 reference images and 3, 025 species from the Indian subcontinent, serving as a vital resource for mapping insect distribution and monitoring seasonal patterns. Among the largest insects globally are Hercules beetles and atlas moths, whose wingspans can almost reach a foot. Notably, the Lethocerus genus harbors the largest water bugs, like Lethocerus grandis. The giant tiger centipede is one of India's largest centipedes, while Meganeura monyi and Meganeuropsis permiana were the largest known insects with wingspans up to 71 cm (28 in).

The Prionid Long-horned Beetle (Acanthophorus serraticornis) is the largest long-horned beetle, and the Hercules beetle is notably the largest insect in India, sometimes measuring up to 16 cm (6. 3 in) and 100 g. The Titan Beetle is the world's largest beetle, reaching 16. 7 cm (6. 6 in). The Giant Centipede, a venomous predator, can grow to a foot long.

How Many Insects Are Endemic In India?

India is home to approximately 63, 760 insect species, with 21, 166 of these identified as endemic. The northeastern states, Western Ghats, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands exhibit the highest insect diversity and endemism. India boasts an estimated 92, 873 faunal species, accounting for about 7. 5% of global diversity. Among these, insects comprise the largest group, with 63, 423 recorded species. Additionally, India has 423 mammals, 1, 233 birds, 526 reptiles, 342 amphibians, and 3, 022 fish. This translates to notable global representation: 7. 6% of mammals, 14. 7% of amphibians, 6% of birds, and 6. 2% of reptiles.

Regarding flora, India is home to 55, 048 known plant species, with 12, 095 being endemic. Endemism reflects the distribution of species in specific areas. In terms of threatened species, those categorized as Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), or Vulnerable (VU) are considered at risk.

Additionally, India has a varied distribution of endemic flowering plants, with approximately 4, 045 endemic angiosperm species among 141 genera and 47 families. The study of India's endemic floral and faunal species allows for an understanding of their representation in protected areas. With more than 800, 000 insect species reported globally, India contributes significantly with around 61, 000 recorded species, where roughly 20, 000 are endemic.

Currently, estimates show that of 59, 353 insect species known in India, 20, 717 are endemic. India's insect diversity reflects its wide-ranging climates and physical conditions, with studies indicating that a significant percentage of insect species face potential extinction.