New Insect Species Discovered in Richtersveld National Park

SANParks described the findings as further confirmation that the park remains a critical reservoir of largely unexplored biodiversity.

Scientists have identified several insect species previously unknown to science in the remote and ecologically unique Richtersveld National Park, reinforcing its status as one of southern Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

The discoveries were detailed in newly published research by internationally respected entomologists Dr Massimo Meregalli (Italy) and Dr Roman Borovec (Czech Republic), who focused on elusive, soil-dwelling flightless weevils inhabiting the park’s rugged terrain.

Hidden Biodiversity Beneath the Shrubs

Flightless weevils are notoriously difficult to study. Living discreetly beneath shrubs and emerging primarily at night, these insects require painstaking fieldwork to locate and collect — often in harsh, isolated environments.

With support and guidance from Richtersveld National Park Nursery Curator Pieter van Wyk, the researchers conducted surveys in the remote Armmanshoek Valley, an area not previously examined for soil insect diversity.

Their efforts led to the identification of multiple new species, underscoring the Richtersveld’s high levels of endemism and its global scientific significance.

SANParks described the findings as further confirmation that the park remains a critical reservoir of largely unexplored biodiversity.

A Rare Scientific Honour: Richtersveldiella sanparkensis

In recognition of the park’s conservation value and SANParks’ role in enabling scientific research, the researchers named a newly described genus and species Richtersveldiella sanparkensis.

The designation marks the first known insect species formally named after both SANParks and Richtersveld National Park, creating a lasting taxonomic tribute within global scientific literature.

Taxonomic naming of new genera is considered a significant scientific milestone, reserved for organisms that exhibit distinct evolutionary characteristics warranting formal classification.

Honouring Cultural Heritage

The researchers have previously acknowledged the region’s deep cultural roots by naming other genera Khoisan and Nama, reflecting the long-standing historical and cultural connections of local communities to the landscape.

The Richtersveld, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is globally recognised not only for its dramatic desert scenery and succulent plant diversity but also for its living cultural traditions.

Conservation Beyond the Iconic Species

SANParks said the discoveries highlight the importance of sustained scientific exploration in protected areas.

“These discoveries highlight the importance of continued scientific exploration within protected areas and reinforce SANParks’ commitment to conserving not only iconic wildlife and landscapes, but also the often-overlooked species that form the foundation of healthy ecosystems,” the organisation said.

While large mammals and scenic landscapes often define public perceptions of conservation, soil insects such as weevils play vital ecological roles, including nutrient cycling and maintaining soil health — functions critical to ecosystem resilience in arid environments like the Richtersveld.

Strengthening the Case for Biodiversity Research

The naming of Richtersveldiella sanparkensis stands as both a scientific achievement and a symbolic acknowledgment of the conservation framework that makes such discoveries possible.

As biodiversity loss accelerates globally, findings like these underscore the value of protected areas as living laboratories — places where even the smallest and most inconspicuous organisms can reshape scientific understanding of evolution, adaptation and ecological balance.