Accra:Researchers from Bangladesh, China, and India have identified a new cicada species, Dundubia annandalei, in Bangladesh, marking the first time this species has been recorded in the country. This discovery adds to the nation's catalog of cicada diversity.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the identification was confirmed through various methods, including field surveys, morphological analysis, and an assessment of environmental data. The study was a collaborative effort involving Professor Dr. Mohammad Abul Manjur Khan from Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and Kong Wei from Northwest A and F University in China. Indian researcher Babu Saddam and BAU postgraduate student Shahmot Jawad also played significant roles in the research, particularly in collecting field data and specimens.
The findings, published in the international scientific journal Insects, detail that 63 specimens were collected from various regions of Bangladesh between February and March 2025. These specimens are currently preserved at the Entomology Department Museum at BAU. The species was observed in several fruit orchards, including those of mango, litchi, dragon fruit, guava, and others. Morphological analysis revealed that Dundubia annandalei is grass-green in color when alive but turns brown when dried, distinguishing itself from Dundubia terpsichore by a unique structural feature in males.
Prior to this discovery, only Dundubia ensifera of the same genus was documented in Bangladesh. The researchers employed the MaxEnt species distribution model to evaluate the cicada's habitat suitability, factoring in environmental variables such as rainfall, temperature, and elevation. Rainfall emerged as the most critical factor influencing the species' distribution. Climate change projections suggest that suitable habitats for Dundubia annandalei could significantly expand by the end of the century.
Despite these findings, the study did not determine the cicada's impact on agriculture in Bangladesh. Professor Manjur Khan highlighted the need for further research to understand the species' distribution, life cycle, and economic impact. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with public and private institutions to develop effective management strategies if the species presents economic challenges.
The researchers stressed the need for sustained research and systematic monitoring to understand the ecological distribution and potential agricultural impact of Dundubia annandalei, which will aid in taking timely preventive measures if necessary.