In News:

A new species of damselfly, Euphaeawayanadensis, has been discovered in the Wayanad region of Kerala, marking a significant addition to India’s odonate diversity.

Key Details:

• Taxonomy:
  • Belongs to the family Euphaeidae.
  • Officially recognized as Kerala’s 191stodonate species (including damselflies and dragonflies).
  • 223rd species recorded from the Western Ghats.
• Discovery and Research:
  • First observed in 2013 at Kalindi River, Thirunelli, Wayanad.
  • Confirmed after field studies conducted until 2023 across Wayanad, Aralam (Kannur), and western Coorg slopes (Karnataka).
  • Discovery published in the peer-reviewed journal ENTOMON.
• Research Contributors:Collaborative effort involving scientists from Kerala Agricultural University, Alphonsa College, and conservation groups like Warblers and Waders, Travancore Nature History Society.
• Identification Process:
  • Initially mistaken for Euphaeapseudodispar (from Maharashtra).
  • Declared a distinct species based on morphological traits and genetic analysis.

Distinct Morphological Features

• Hind wing: Longer black patch compared to similar species.
• Stripes: Broader, uninterrupted humeral and antehumeral stripes in males.
• Male genital vesicle: Structurally unique from related species.

Habitat & Distribution

• Inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams with aquatic vegetation.
• Found in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests along stream banks.
• Active throughout the year except March–April (dry season).
• Shows restricted distribution, making it ecologically vulnerable.

Conservation Importance

• The discovery underlines the biodiversity richness of the Western Ghats.
• Highlights the need for targeted conservation of aquatic invertebrates in fragile ecosystems like Wayanad.
• Emphasised by experts from the IUCN Dragonfly Specialist Group.