SAFFRON REEDTAIL DAMSELFLY DISCOVERY IN KARNATAKA

PRELIMS BITS 

Key Facts:

• Species: Indosticta deccanensis
• Location: Madhugundi Village, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka
• First Recorded: Northernmost part of the Western Ghats
• Known Regions: Tamil Nadu, Kerala

Physical Features:

• Size: Less than 2 inches long
• Appearance: Cinnamon-colored thorax, transparent wings
• Family: Platystictidae (Shadow Damselflies)

Habitat & Distribution:

• Found near slow-moving forest streams
• Thrives in clean, unpolluted environments
• Discovery extends its range northward in the Western Ghats

Ecological Significance:

• Indicator species: A sign of healthy ecosystems
• Sensitive to environmental changes: Helps monitor water quality and ecosystem health

Research & Conservation:

• Adds to Western Ghats biodiversity (196 species of odonates)
• Increased urban populations during COVID-19 lockdown highlight environmental sensitivity
• Ongoing research by Society for Odonate Studies (SOS)

Historical Info:

• First described by: Frank Fortescue Laidlaw
• Local name: ‘Kumkuma nizhal thumbi’ (Malayalam)
• Active months: June to November

Conservation Call:

• Protect mangrove ecosystems from deforestation, pollution, and climate change.