Adult Chinocossus acronyctoides moth
Dr Veto Khesoh
Kohima
Assistant Professor of Chemistry at St. Joseph's College, Jakhama, Dr Veto Khesoh has contributed to the scientific understanding of Lünyi through his doctoral research conducted at Nagaland University.
The study uncovered important scientific findings on Lünyi, a traditional edible insect delicacy widely consumed in Nagaland and commonly sold in markets, particularly in its capital, Kohima.
Lünyi, the larval stage of an oak borer moth, has long been recognized and consumed by local communities. However, despite its popularity, uncertainty has often existed regarding its precise scientific identity. Through detailed morphological examination and modern DNA-based analyses, the researchers confirmed the species as Chinocossus acronyctoides (Lepidoptera: Cossidae).
To establish the identity of the species, the researchers employed DNA barcoding using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI/COX1) gene, one of the most widely accepted molecular markers for species identification. The generated DNA sequence has been deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) GenBank database under accession number PP358253, providing a valuable genetic reference for scientists and future biodiversity studies worldwide.
The study further examined the evolutionary relationship of Chinocossus acronyctoides with other members of the family Cossidae through phylogenetic analysis. The results confirmed its close relationship with other Asian cossid moth species and provided scientific evidence supporting its taxonomic placement.
Researchers also noted that the species is not restricted to Nagaland alone. Records indicate that Chinocossus acronyctoides is distributed across several parts of Asia, including countries such as China and Vietnam, suggesting a wider geographical range than generally recognized by the public.
Beyond species identification, the study explored the chemical composition of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) produced by Lünyi larvae. Using advanced analytical techniques, including Solid-Phase Micro-Extraction coupled with Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS), the researchers identified numerous naturally occurring, saturated and unsaturated fatty compounds associated with the insect.
One of the most significant findings of the study was the antibacterial activity exhibited by the extracts derived from the larval volatile compounds. Laboratory investigations demonstrated inhibitory effects against several disease-causing bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The findings suggest that insect-derived compounds may possess promising bioactive properties and could potentially contribute to future research in antimicrobial drug discovery.
According to the researchers, the study not only resolves questions regarding the scientific identity of the popularly consumed Lünyi but also highlights the untapped scientific and biotechnological potential of indigenous biological resources found in Northeast India. The work demonstrates how traditional knowledge and local biodiversity can contribute to modern scientific research and may open new avenues in the fields of chemical ecology, biodiversity conservation, natural product chemistry, and antimicrobial studies.
The findings have not only been published in an international scientific journal but have also resulted in the grant of a patent based on the insect's antibacterial properties, demonstrating the potential practical applications of the research.
The research was conducted at the Department of Chemistry, Nagaland University, under the supervision of Dr Prabhakar Maddela and forms part of the doctoral research carried out by Dr. Veto Khesoh. The findings underscore the importance of documenting and scientifically evaluating traditional biological resources that have long been valued by local communities.
Dr Veto Khesoh is Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, St Joseph’s College, Jakhama, Kohima.
