Researchers from the **University of Magdalena** and the **National Institute of Biodiversity (Inabio) of Ecuador** identified a **new species of ant** in the southern region of the [Ecuadorian Amazon](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/el-41-de-los-arboles-endemicos-de-la-amazonia-ecuatoriana-estan-en-riesgo/).
Named **Nesomyrmex paquisha**, its name pays tribute to **Paquisha**, an area near the border with **Peru**, recognized for its **extraordinary biodiversity** and for hosting **numerous endemic species** of flora and fauna.
## Unique characteristics of the new species
The research team determined that **Nesomyrmex paquisha** is a **previously unknown species**, thanks to differences in:
– **Abdomen structure**.
– **Size and number of segments in its antennae**.
In the **neotropical region**, **at least 13 species of ants of the genus Nesomyrmex** have been recorded, making this finding a valuable contribution to the taxonomy and [conservation of these insects](https://noticiasambientales.com/ciencia/destacan-que-en-colombia-aumentaron-el-numero-de-especies-de-mariposas/).
## Expansion of knowledge about Nesomyrmex ants
Despite the **abundance of specimens in the area**, the **lack of recent studies** and the limited use of **new sampling techniques** have restricted knowledge about the genus.
Therefore, researchers hope that this discovery will help **complete the picture** of these species and their biodiversity.
In recent months, the same scientific team described **three new ant species**:
– **Nesomyrmex anduzei**.
– **Nesomyrmex pittieri**.
– **Nesomyrmex tonsuratus**.
## Environmental threats in the region
The study also warns of **environmental risks** for these species, particularly **in the Cordillera del Cóndor**, an area of **great biological importance** due to its richness in endemic organisms.
Researchers denounced **negative impacts** caused by **operations of a Chinese mining company**, which could seriously affect **essential ecosystems for biodiversity**.
This finding reinforces the **importance of scientific studies and conservation policies** to protect newly discovered species and the environmental balance of the Amazon region.
