Queensland Students Discover New Wasp Species Through Citizen Science

In a significant advancement for citizen science and biodiversity research, a new species of parasitic wasp has been identified from specimens collected by students at Gin Gin State High School in Queensland, Australia. The wasp, named Cotesia ginginensis, was recognized through DNA barcoding and detailed analysis conducted in Canada, marking a notable achievement in the field of entomology.

The discovery originated from a citizen science initiative that engaged 50 schools across Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia in 2022. Students utilized Malaise traps—tent-like structures designed to capture flying insects—to collect hundreds of specimens. The Gin Gin students, under the guidance of Karyn Goodman, the head of science at their school, expressed excitement and pride in contributing to scientific knowledge.

According to Dr. Andy Howe, an entomologist at the University of the Sunshine Coast and a key researcher in this project, Cotesia ginginensis is a parasitoid, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs in a host larva, which eventually leads to the host's death. Dr. Howe stated that while the wasp has been identified, much remains unknown about its ecological role and population dynamics. "We know very little about how abundant they are, as that depends on their host and the habitat they occupy," he remarked.

The identification of Cotesia ginginensis was published in the peer-reviewed journal Zootaxa, which is dedicated to the study of animal taxonomy and biodiversity. The process of recognizing this new species involved sending the collected specimens to the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics in Canada for DNA barcoding, a method that allows for precise identification of species based on genetic material.

Karyn Goodman noted that the experience has profoundly impacted the students, enhancing their understanding of scientific processes and fostering a deeper respect for their environment. "This project has provided a clear link to real-world science for them," she said, highlighting the educational value of hands-on involvement in scientific research.

Caitlin Caunt, a past student involved in the project, shared her astonishment at the discovery. "We didn't really believe at first that we had found something new, and finding out it was published was like, 'Wow, that actually happened,'" she said. This sentiment reflects the broader implications of citizen science initiatives, which can yield significant contributions to scientific knowledge while educating and inspiring the next generation.

The discovery of Cotesia ginginensis adds to the growing list of over 220,000 insect species documented in Australia, of which only approximately 30% have been formally described. Dr. Howe emphasized the importance of continued exploration in entomology, noting that there is still much to learn about Australia's diverse insect fauna.

This achievement not only showcases the potential of student-led initiatives to contribute to scientific discovery but also highlights the critical role of citizen science in documenting biodiversity, particularly in a world where many species remain undescribed. The findings from Gin Gin State High School serve as a reminder of the untapped potential within local communities to contribute to global scientific knowledge, and further underscore the importance of educational programs that connect students with nature and scientific inquiry.