Professor Halil Ibrahimi from the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Mathematical and Natural Sciences at the University of Prishtina, along with his team, has discovered a new insect species in the remote mountainous areas of Lumbardhi in Deçan, within the "Bjeshkët e Nemuna" National Park.
Professor Ibrahimi named the small flying creature Tinodes lumbardhi, immortalizing the name of the river and the place where the insect was found.
The aquatic insect, whose wings measure less than 5 millimeters, was discovered in an isolated and cool environment with dense vegetation and permanent shade, according to Professor Ibrahimi.
“The discovery of this species highlights Kosova’s rich biodiversity while also underscoring the vulnerability of these essential ecosystems, which are crucial for the sustainability of rivers and the environment as a whole. This finding also positions the University of Prishtina among serious research institutions in the fields of taxonomy and ecology,” stated Professor Halil Ibrahimi.
The researcher called for the preservation of natural habitats to ensure the survival of such species. According to environmental activists, the Lumbardhi area in Deçan is under threat from pollution and hydropower plants, which have reduced the river’s water levels and affected the quality of these ecosystems.
In recent years, Professor Halil Ibrahimi has discovered several other aquatic insect species from the Sharr and Kopaonik mountain ranges. Some of the species he has identified—Potamophylax humoinsapiens, Potamophylax coronavirus, and Potamophylax kosovaensis—are linked not only to Kosova but also to the global pandemic that we endured.
Professor Ibrahimi’s research was supported by his team members, including Professors Linda Grapci-Kotori and Donard Geci from the University of Prishtina, as well as Astrit Bilalli and Milaim Musliu from the University of Peja.
His discoveries have been published in the Biodiversity Data Journal, and even Discover Wildlife by BBC reported on this latest finding.