A new insect species was discovered during fieldwork in Kırşehir, Türkiye, and named “Emine” by zoologist Dr. Ersin Demirel after his wife. The insect belongs to the Cixiidae family, known as plant pests that transmit diseases between plants.
Demirel explained the identification process took 18 months and highlighted the critical role of taxonomy in protecting Türkiye’s biodiversity. He said naming species after family members is a tradition in science and noted his choice aimed to prevent foreign researchers from assigning potentially controversial names.
He also warned about biosmuggling and urged greater local involvement in biodiversity studies, emphasizing that Türkiye’s biological richness is often ignored or exploited by foreign researchers.
Bilal Sarıkavak – Tolga Başer
TR