New species of gnat discovered in Teddington's Bushy Park thanks to the shape of its genitals

Entomologist Peter Chandler discovered the Grzegorzekia bushyae, or Bushy Gnat, when he spotted it had a different genital structure to the common species of fungus gnat, Grzegorzekia collaris, which was the only previously known species of its kind in the UK.

Mr Chandler found the male genitals of the new Bushy Gnat had a much broader comb of spines than the more common collaris gnats.

He also found the sides of the genitals were narrower and cut away, revealing more of the gnat’s reproductive organ which secretes sperm.

The insects were found in the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens towards the park’s western edge and were confirmed to be a new species, which is also thought to be scarce across Europe.

The Bushy Gnat's genitals differ from those of the common Grzegorzekia collaris

Mr Chandler told the Entomologist’s Gazette the same species was later found in a forest in south-east France, so he concluded this type of gnat was only found in woodland areas.

Studies into whether a specific fungus is helping support the species are ongoing.

Mr Chandler said: “With Bushy Park remaining the only known site in Britain, it is difficult to determine the present status of Grzegorzekia bushyae.

“In view of the finds being in close proximity to the woodland garden, in which there has been considerable exotic planting, it might be concluded that it is a recent introduction with plant material. The recent discovery of this distinctive species suggests that it is quite scarce.”

Claudia Watts, from the Royal Parks’ ecology team, said the discovery had put Bushy Park on the worldwide insect map.

She said: “Most people think that new species to science are only discovered nowadays in little-visited far-flung places like tropical rainforests or the depths of the ocean, but this shows that even public parks in London can harbour undiscovered gems.

“These little flies may look unremarkable, but they are a vital source of food for birds, fish, bats and larger insects, and in some cases can help pollinate plants.” National Insect Week begins on June 20.