CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
A newly identified species of dragonfly, Lyriothemis abrahami, has been discovered in the Western Ghats, highlighting the region’s remarkable biodiversity. This species had long been misidentified as Lyriothemis flava due to similar external features. The discovery was made through collaborative research led by the Travancore Nature History Society and its partners, reinforcing the importance of in-depth scientific exploration in India’s forest ecosystems.
Species Identified
The dragonfly was discovered through extensive fieldwork and larval rearing studies. Researchers carefully analyzed larval development and dissected adult specimens, uncovering physical traits that set the new species apart. Earlier studies, which relied on more superficial features, had failed to recognize these distinctions. The official description was published in the journal Entomon in June 2025, and the species was named in honor of Abraham Samuel, a respected odonatologist from Kerala.
Distinct Features And Sexual Dimorphism
One of the most notable aspects of Lyriothemis abrahami is its pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males are distinguished by uniquely shaped hamules, which are reproductive structures, while females are characterized by their jet-black coloration and yellow triangular markings. These features make it clearly distinguishable from its close relative, Lyriothemis flava. The species is known to breed in phytotelmata—small water bodies that accumulate in tree hollows.
Habitat And Geographical Range
Lyriothemis abrahami is endemic to the southern and central parts of the Western Ghats. It inhabits a variety of forest ecosystems, including lowland rainforests, mid-elevation evergreen forests, and deciduous woodlands. The species is found at elevations ranging from 50 to 1100 meters above sea level. Although it has a relatively broad range, it is considered rare and locally restricted in distribution.
Discovery Matters
The identification of this new species uncovers previously hidden diversity within India’s forests. It highlights the limitations of relying solely on juvenile forms or external traits for species identification. Interestingly, specimens collected as far back as 2013 were later confirmed to belong to Lyriothemis abrahami, further validating the importance of detailed morphological analysis. With this addition, Kerala now records 191 dragonfly species, of which 78 are endemic.
Conservation Considerations
The study underlines the need to conserve forest microhabitats, particularly tree holes, which serve as crucial breeding grounds for species like Lyriothemis abrahami. The loss of mature trees and canopy cover directly threatens these breeding sites. Safeguarding such microhabitats not only supports this newly discovered dragonfly but also contributes to the overall biodiversity and ecological stability of forest ecosystems.
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