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35% gap in new odonate study signals mounting ecological stress in Western Ghats
A two-year field survey across 144 sites in the Western Ghats documented 143 odonate species, including 40 endemics. The researchers found that only about 65% of historically known species remain, indicating a nearly 35% gap and potential ecological stress in this biodiversity hotspot. The study also notes regional variation and multiple threats to freshwater habitats.
Why It Matters
Odonates are sensitive bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health; their decline signals ecological degradation from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
Timeline
4 Events
News article reports study findings
April 27, 2026
A news article summarizing the study and its findings was published on April 27, 2026, underscoring the nearly 35% gap in odonate records and what this signals for ecological stress in the Western Ghats. The piece discusses the role of odonates as bioindicators and the implications for conservation policy and monitoring.
Study published in Biology Bulletin Reviews
April 21, 2026
The comprehensive odonate study was published on April 21, 2026 in Biology Bulletin Reviews. It reports 143 species documented, about 65% of historically known records (historically around 200), and notes that many species are data deficient or not evaluated. Three species—Elattoneura souteri, Protosticta sanguinostigma, and Cyclogomphus ypsilon—are currently classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The study also highlights regional variations, with higher diversity in the southern Western Ghats and lower in the northern regions, and identifies threats from development, pollution, land-use change, and climate change.
Field surveys conclude for the odonate study
March 2023
The two-year field surveys were completed in March 2023. The team documented 143 distinct odonate species, including 40 endemics, with a southern Western Ghats richness relative to the northern regions.
Field surveys begin for the odonate study
February 2021
Field surveys for the comprehensive odonate study began in February 2021, spanning 144 sites across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. Led by Pankaj Koparde with Arajush Payra, Amey Deshpande and Reji Chandran, the team conducted extensive sampling of dragonflies and damselflies to assess biodiversity and freshwater ecosystem health in the Western Ghats.