New Damselfly Species Discovered In Western Ghats
Two new damselfly species have been identified in the Western Ghats. These species were earlier mistaken for an older known species. Their discovery marks the region’s unique biodiversity and the importance of preserving its habitats.
Recent Discoveries
Researchers from Maharashtra and Kerala discovered the Konkan Shadowdamsel and Crimson Shadowdamsel. The Konkan Shadowdamsel was found in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. The Crimson Shadowdamsel was located in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. Both belong to the ‘Shadowdamsel’ group, known for preferring shaded forest areas.
Species Differentiation
Previously, these two species were confused with the Red-spot Shadowdamsel described over a century ago in the Nilgiri Hills. Detailed studies using high-resolution microscopy and molecular analysis of the COI gene revealed clear differences. The Crimson Shadowdamsel has a reddish body. The Konkan Shadowdamsel displays a coffee-brown colour. The Red-spot Shadowdamsel is jet black.
Habitat and Distribution
The Western Ghats are home to 16 species of Protosticta damselflies. Most have small, restricted ranges within this biodiversity hotspot. The new species were found in microhabitats, small forest patches with dense shade and clean streams. These areas are outside protected zones, making the species vulnerable.
Conservation Concerns
Shadowdamsels thrive only in pristine habitats with good canopy cover and unpolluted streams. Their survival is threatened by habitat loss due to plantation expansion and tree felling. The exact threat level to these new species is yet to be assessed. Their presence signals healthy forest ecosystems and clean water sources.
Ecological Importance
Damselflies like Shadowdamsels serve as bioindicators. Their presence reflects the ecological health of forests and water quality. Since many Protosticta species are microendemics, focused surveys in the Western Ghats can reveal more undiscovered species. This underlines the region’s rich but fragile biodiversity.
Research and Collaboration
The discovery was made by a team from various organisations including the Society for Odonate Studies, Indian Foundation for Butterflies, and National Centre for Biological Sciences. Their combined expertise in taxonomy, ecology, and molecular biology was crucial for this work.
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