During an expedition in the Andean foothills in Colombia, a team of entomologists from the University of Antioquia identified an insect never seen before, a new species of cicada, Abana colombiana.
This discovery was made in Cachipay, Santa María municipality, Boyacá, and highlights the biodiversity of the humid forests in this region, which have been little explored until now.
The Abana colombiana and an unseen insect
The lead author of the study, Jefferson Sauceda, explained in his report that the unique morphological characteristics of the specimen captured in Boyacá aroused the team’s interest. This discovery adds to another relevant finding from the same expedition: the first confirmation in Colombia of Abana tissa, a species previously only recorded in Ecuador.
“These findings not only expand the known geographical range of these species, but also raise questions about their dispersion and ecological adaptation,” Sauceda explained.
Importance of the genus Abana and its conservation
The genus Abana, to which both species belong, is poorly studied in Colombia, despite being part of one of the most diverse insect families in the world, Cicadellidae. Their presence is closely linked to well-preserved forests, making them bioindicators of ecosystem health.
“Insects like Abana reflect the state of forest conservation. Their absence could be a sign of environmental deterioration,” Sauceda emphasized, highlighting the urgency to protect these habitats from threats such as deforestation and agricultural expansion.
Taxonomic challenges and futuristic studies
Characterizing the Colombian Abana presented significant challenges. The similarity between the genitourinary structures of the genus species makes differentiation difficult, leading researchers to resort to genetic analysis to confirm it was a unique species.
Additionally, the study revealed that Abana horvathi, previously considered a single species, is actually a group of cryptic species, suggesting greater diversity in the genus.
Impact on agriculture and the need for support
Beyond its ecological relevance, researchers highlight potential agricultural implications. Several species of leafhoppers can act as vectors for diseases in crops, and understanding their ecology could help develop more effective management strategies.
Sauceda stressed the importance of strengthening biological collections to advance the study of these insects. However, he warned that the lack of resources threatens the continuity of these investigations. “Each new species is a reminder of how much we don’t know about nature and the need for timely conservation measures,” he concluded.
Photos: Jefferson Sauceda/ Biologist at the University of Antioquia
Do you already know our YouTube channel? Subscribe!
