CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
A remarkable discovery has been made in the Western Ghats, Kerala, with the identification of a new species of damselfly, Euphaea wayanadensis. This species, belonging to the family Euphaeidae, was first observed in the Wayanad region and has now been confirmed as a distinct species through extensive research and genetic analysis.
Discovery And Identification
The damselfly was initially spotted in 2013 at the Kalindi River in Thirunelli, Wayanad district, Kerala. Over the years, further observations were recorded between 2013 and 2019 in various locations within Wayanad. Subsequent sightings from 2019 to 2023 extended the known range of this species to Aralam in Kannur, Kerala, and the western slopes of Coorg, Karnataka.
Challenges In Identification
During early observations, researchers initially misidentified Euphaea wayanadensis as Euphaea pseudodispar, a species previously documented in Maharashtra. However, through detailed morphological examinations and genetic sequencing, experts confirmed that it was an entirely new species, distinct from its previously known relatives.
Key Morphological Features
The Euphaea wayanadensis exhibits several unique physical traits, distinguishing it from other species in the Euphaeidae family. These features include:
Distinct Hind Wing Patterns: One of its most defining characteristics is the extended black patch on its hind wings, which is longer than that of closely related species.
Vivid Colouration: Male specimens display bold, uninterrupted humeral and antehumeral stripes, giving them a striking appearance compared to their counterparts.
Unique Genital Structure: A crucial factor in its classification was the distinct structural traits in the male genital vesicle, which differed significantly from those found in related damselfly species.
Habitat And Ecological Preferences
The Euphaea wayanadensis is known to inhabit fast-flowing freshwater streams that have rocky beds and are rich in aquatic vegetation. These streams are typically located within evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, primarily along stream banks.
Active Period - This species remains active throughout most of the year, except during the dry months of March and April, when stream levels decline.
Restricted Distribution - The species exhibits a highly localized range, making it especially vulnerable to threats such as habitat destruction, deforestation, and climate change.
Conservation Concerns
Due to its limited distribution and dependency on undisturbed freshwater ecosystems, Euphaea wayanadensis is at potential risk from habitat loss, pollution, and climate fluctuations. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving the fragile stream ecosystems in the Western Ghats to ensure the survival of this newly discovered species.
Significance Of Discovery
The identification of Euphaea wayanadensis highlights the biodiversity richness of the Western Ghats, one of the world’s most important ecological hotspots. It also underscores the need for continued exploration and conservation of freshwater habitats to protect lesser-known species from extinction.
This discovery adds to the growing list of new species being found in the Western Ghats, emphasizing the importance of conservation policies and habitat protection measures to sustain the delicate ecological balance in the region.
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