Scientists have named a newly identified species of parasitic wasp after legendary British naturalist and broadcaster David Attenborough in celebration of his 100th birthday, marking yet another scientific tribute to one of the world’s most influential environmental storytellers.
The newly described insect, named Attenboroughnculus tau, was officially unveiled by researchers at the Natural History Museum ahead of Attenborough’s centenary celebrations on May 8.
The tiny parasitic wasp, measuring only 3.5 millimetres long, was originally collected in Chile’s Valdivia Province in 1983 but remained unidentified for decades within the museum’s vast insect archives until volunteer researcher Augustijn De Ketelaere rediscovered it during a review of ichneumon wasp collections.
According to researchers, the insect’s unusual T-shaped marking on its abdomen and distinctive anatomical features revealed that it belonged not only to a new species but an entirely new genus. The scientific study describing the insect was published in the Journal of Natural History.
Dr Gavin Broad, Principal Curator of Insects at the Natural History Museum and lead author of the study, said Attenborough’s lifelong contribution to natural history inspired the naming.
“We thought, well, who’s important enough to have a genus named after them? Surely, David Attenborough,” Broad said.
Broad also revealed that Attenborough personally responded to the honour with a handwritten note expressing gratitude.
The naming adds to a growing list of more than 50 species already named after Attenborough, including frogs, butterflies, reptiles, plants, and even extinct marine reptiles such as the prehistoric Attenborosaurus.
Attenborough, widely regarded as one of the most influential wildlife broadcasters in history, turned 100 on May 8 amid global celebrations honouring his decades-long career in environmental education and conservation advocacy.
Over a broadcasting career spanning more than 70 years, Attenborough became internationally renowned through iconic documentaries such as Planet Earth, Blue Planet, and Life on Earth. His work has been credited with increasing global awareness about biodiversity loss, climate change, and conservation.
Celebrations for the veteran broadcaster’s 100th birthday included a gala event at London’s Royal Albert Hall, tributes from public figures including Britain’s royal family, and environmental campaigns across the world.
