‘Very large and robust’ praying mantis discovered in Vietnam is named after David Attenborough
- Belgian researchers have called the animal ‘Titanodula attenboroughi’
- Sub-species was found in the Annamite mountains of central Vietnam
- Discoverers honoured Attenborough as he is ‘one of the world’s most beloved naturalists’
A brand new species of praying mantis has been discovered in Vietnam and named after Sir David Attenborough.
Belgian researchers found the ‘very large and robust’ sub-species while on a recent expedition to the Annamite mountains.
The Royal Belgian Society of Entomology researchers called the species ‘Titanodula attenboroughi’.
They said they decided to honour the British TV presenter with their nomenclature because Sir David is ‘one of the world’s most beloved naturalists’.
Scroll down for video
Belgian researchers found the ‘very large and robust’ sub-species Titanodula attenboroughi while on a recent expedition to the Annamite mountains. Pictured, the newly discovered species and Sir David Attenborough
The Belgian Journal of Entomology describes the new-found insect as a ‘very large and robust praying mantis’.
It has a triangular head, antennae filiform, long but robust pronotum and a smooth dorsal surface.
Mantises were once assigned to the catch-all Herodula genus – dubbed a ‘wastebasket taxon’ by the journal.
However, species within this group differ significantly in one noticeably fashion, the male genitalia.
The genus has all forms of morphology for the male reproductive region and this can be used to categorise and discern between different groups.
The research has allowed scientists to assign Sir David’s eponymous mantis to a new group, Titanodula.
Broadcaster and naturalist Sir David, 94, is best known for presenting his nine series of ‘Life’ wildlife documentaries, beginning with Life on Earth in 1979.
A new five-part One series Perfect Planet is due to be screened later this year.
At least 20 species and genera, both living and extinct, have been named in Attenborough’s honour. In 2016 the British polar research vessel was named the RRS Sir David Attenborough despite an internet poll suggesting it be called Boaty McBoatface.