Two new species of long-legged flies have been discovered in the mangrove forests of Thailand and Singapore, marking a significant contribution to the understanding of lesser-known insect biodiversity in Southeast Asia.
The discovery was led by Dr.Abdulloh Samoh, researcher at the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum (PSUNHM), in collaboration with Dr.Patrick Grootaert of the National Biodiversity Centre, NParks Singapore, Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS).
Despite being top insect predators in mangrove ecosystems — helping control populations of mosquitoes and midges — long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) remain one of the least studied insect groups in the region. The two new species described (Hercostomus obtusus and Hercostomus squamatus) were found in the coastal mangroves of Phang Nga and Satun provinces, underscoring the importance of these habitats for hosting biodiversity still unknown to science.
“Every new species is a reminder that life on land — even in places as familiar as our coasts — holds secrets yet to be revealed,”
Dr.Abdulloh Samoh
This discovery adds to Thailand’s known insect diversity and highlights the critical role of mangroves as biodiversity hotspots, especially for organisms that are underrepresented in conservation planning. It also reflects the importance of international collaboration in documenting, understanding, and ultimately protecting life on land
