New Species of Burying Beetle Discovered in Solomon Islands
Posted on June 21, 2013
Scientists have discovered a new species of burying beetle, Nicrophorus efferens in the Solomon Islands. The new species was collected in 1968, but was not recognized as a new species until now.
Burying beetles are known for their large size and striking black and red colors. They also have interesting reproductive behaviors. Burying beetles are known for burying small vertebrate carcasses which their offspring eat in an underground crypt, guarded by both parents. The scientists say it is likely the newly discovered species also bury small vertebrate carcasses, but it is not known for sure because they have not been seen alive.
Dr. Sikes, University of Alaska Museum, said in a statement, "It was a bit of good luck that led to our realization these specimens belonged to an undescribed species. My student, Tonya, was visiting Hawaii for some R&R and decided to look over the burying beetles held by the Bishop Museum. Her PhD research was focused on the biogeography and evolution of a subgroup of these beetles and she identified these six specimens as very interesting and possibly new. The discovery of new species in old collections is a common occurrence and one of the many reasons why museums like the Bishop play a vital role in helping us understand life on this planet."
The research was published here in Zookeys.