Description

Why In News?

A comprehensive two-year study led by MIT-WPU across 144 sites revealed a nearly 35% shortfall in historically known Odonata species.

About Odonata

Odonata represents an order of carnivorous insects that includes two suborders: dragonflies (Anisoptera) and damselflies (Zygoptera).

Scientists label these insects as sensitive bioindicators or "indicator taxa" because they depend entirely on healthy freshwater ecosystems for breeding and survival.

Their presence or absence directly indicates the health of water bodies and reveals early signs of deeper ecological stress or water pollution.

Recent Western Ghats Survey

Researchers record only 143 distinct Odonata species (76 dragonflies and 67 damselflies), a 35% shortfall compared to the species historically known in the region.
The study identifies 40 endemic species => they exist only in the Western Ghats.
The Southern Western Ghats host a much greater diversity and degree of endemism due to the availability of perennial streams and rich microhabitats.
State-Wise Breakdown of Odonata Diversity:

Maharashtra records the highest total count at 100 species, followed by Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat.

IUCN Red List Status of Recorded Species

Vulnerable (3 species): Elattoneura souteri, Protosticta sanguinostigma, and Cyclogomphus ypsilon.
Near Threatened (2 species): Phylloneura westermanni and Heliogomphus promela.
Least Concern: 100 species face no immediate extinction threat.
Data Deficient / Not Evaluated: 38 species.

Source: THEHINDU

Attempt Daily Quiz

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. With reference to the recent Odonata surveys in the Western Ghats, consider the following statements:

Researchers documented only about 65% of the historically known Odonata species.
Dragonflies and damselflies are categorized under the exact same suborder within the order Odonata.
Species such as Elattoneura souteri and Protosticta sanguinostigma are currently classified as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: b

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Researchers documented only about 65% of the historically known Odonata species, pointing to a 35% shortfall in diversity.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Dragonflies and damselflies belong to different suborders (Anisoptera vs. Zygoptera), though both are in the order Odonata.

Statement 3 is correct: Elattoneura souteri and Protosticta sanguinostigma are classified as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Odonates, comprising dragonflies and damselflies, are critical bio-indicators of freshwater ecosystem health. Because their larvae depend entirely on clean water, their presence or absence quickly signals changes in water quality and ecological stability.

A comprehensive two-year study led by MIT-WPU across 144 sites revealed a nearly 35% shortfall in historically known Odonata species. Researchers recorded only 143 species out of approximately 222 historically known to the region.

The primary threats include linear infrastructure development, hydropower projects, severe pollution, large-scale land-use changes, unscientific waste management, unregulated tourism, recurring forest fires, and climate change.