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Scientists Discover Two New Firefly Species in Meghalaya
Asia’s cleanest village adds scientific milestone with first recorded luminous insects
Mawlynnong, widely known as Asia’s cleanest village, has achieved a new distinction with the discovery of previously unknown species of fireflies.
Researchers led by Emma Magdalene Nonglang of Assam Don Bosco University documented Meghalaya’s first scientifically recorded luminous insects, identifying two new species—Diaphanes meghalayanus and Diaphanes mawlynnong.
While D. meghalayanus was found across multiple habitats in the state, D. mawlynnong was specifically observed in the dense forested areas surrounding Mawlynnong, near the India–Bangladesh border.
The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Meghalaya and underscores the ecological importance of preserving natural habitats in the region. It also adds to Mawlynnong’s reputation, not only as a model of cleanliness but now also as a site of scientific significance.