Research Projects

Biting midges, part of the Ceratopogonidae family, are a significant contributor to the Andaman-Nicobar archipelago, a biodiversity hotspot in the Indian subcontinent and Malaysian-Indonesian region. These insects have diverse feeding habits, some adapted to blood-sucking, and are vectors of various diseases, pathogens, and pests in livestock and humans. The Andaman-Nicobar group of islands, located between the Indian subcontinent and the Malaysian-Indonesian region, is considered a remarkable storehouse of biodiversity. However, there has been limited research on biting midges in this area, which could provide new taxa, records, and interesting observations. The island ecosystem is at risk of disease outbreaks, particularly arthropod-borne diseases, due to its tropical location and geographical isolation. The aim of this study is to formulate a sustainable state policy to manage potential vectors of human and livestock through scientific study, preventing economic and medical loss for the locals of this unique ecosystem. The study aims to provide new taxa, records, and interesting observations on biting midges in this important biodiversity hotspot. The study also aims to formulate a sustainable state policy to manage potential vectors of human and livestock, ensuring the protection of the locals and the ecosystem.