Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Scientists have described a new genus and species of parasitic wasp found within the collections of the Natural History Museum and named it as a birthday present for Sir David Attenborough.
The name Attenboroughnculus tau pays tribute to Sir David Attenborough, whose work has inspired generations, including many of those working at the Natural History Museum, to appreciate and protect the natural world. The naming coincides with Sir David’s 100th birthday and reflects his profound influence on biodiversity research and public engagement with science. The species name tau refers to a striking ‘T’ shaped marking on the insect’s abdomen.
Attenborough has famously highlighted parasitoid wasps in his documentaries, including memorable sequences in The Trials of Life, where he described them as ‘bodysnatcher wasps.’ His storytelling has brought attention to organisms that are often overlooked due to their small size or unusual life histories.
#NaturalHistoryMuseum #Wasp #DavidAttenborough
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Scientists have described a new genus and species of parasitic wasp found within the collections of the Natural History Museum and named it as a birthday present for Sir David Attenborough.
The name Attenboroughnculus tau pays tribute to Sir David Attenborough, whose work has inspired generations, including many of those working at the Natural History Museum, to appreciate and protect the natural world. The naming coincides with Sir David’s 100th birthday and reflects his profound influence on biodiversity research and public engagement with science. The species name tau refers to a striking ‘T’ shaped marking on the insect’s abdomen.
Attenborough has famously highlighted parasitoid wasps in his documentaries, including memorable sequences in The Trials of Life, where he described them as ‘bodysnatcher wasps.’ His storytelling has brought attention to organisms that are often overlooked due to their small size or unusual life histories.
#NaturalHistoryMuseum #Wasp #DavidAttenborough
----------------
Subscribe to our channel for the latest natural history content youtube.com/naturalhistorymuseum?sub_confirmation=1
The Natural History Museum in London is home to more than 80 million objects, including meteorites, dinosaur bones and a giant squid. Our channel brings the Museum to you, from what goes on behind the scenes to surprising science and stories from our scientists.
Browse our shop: nhmshop.co.uk
Website: nhm.ac.uk
Instagram: instagram.com/natural_history_museum
TikTok: tiktok.com/@its_nhm
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/nhm-london.bsky.social
X: https://x.com/nhm_london
Facebook: fb.com/naturalhistorymuseum
