Scientists have discovered multiple new insect species in the Richtersveld – one rather interesting find of the lot has been named in honour of the region and the forces that keep it protected.
Northern Cape, South Africa (13 February 2026) – Internationally respected entomologists Dr Massimo Meregalli (Italy) and Dr Roman Borovec (Czech Republic) recently published new research on a new species of flightless weevils collected in remote parts of the Richtersveld National Park.
With the support and guidance of Richtersveld National Park Nursery Curator Pieter van Wyk, the researchers explored the remote Armmanshoek Valley, an area not previously surveyed for soil insects. From there, multiple new insect species were identified.
In recognition of SANParks’ role in protecting and enabling research in the area, one newly described genus and species has been named Richtersveldiella sanparkensis. Being notoriously difficult to study, the soil-dwelling insect lives beneath shrubs and emerges mostly at night.
It’s the first known insect species formally named after SANParks and Richtersveld National Park.
The researchers have previously named other genera Khoisan and Nama, honouring hundreds of years in cultural history of the region and the deep connections between local communities and the landscape.
“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 ecosystem,” shared SANParks.
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