An exciting discovery has emerged from the heart of Silent Valley National Park: six brand-new species of dragonflies and damselflies! This remarkable finding came to light during an odonate survey conducted from October 10 to 12. This collaborative effort between Silent Valley National Park authorities and the Society for Odonate Studies (SOS) vividly illustrates the increasing vibrancy and natural wealth of this untouched ecosystem.
Over the course of three days, the dedicated survey team documented an incredible 83 odonate species, with the six newly identified ones contributing significantly. These fresh additions have elevated Silent Valley National Park’s overall odonate count from 103 to 109, showcasing its profound biodiversity.
(Image: The striking Black and Yellow Bambootail, one of the newly discovered odonates.)
The fascinating new discoveries include:
- The Long Legged Clubtail (Merogomphus longistigma)
- Fraser’s Torrent Hawk (Macromia irata)
- Dark Daggerhead (Macromidia donaldi)
- Blue-necked Reedtail (Protosticta mortoni)
- Wayanad Torrent Dart (Euphaea wayanadensis)
- And the visually striking Black and Yellow Bambootail (Elattoneura tetrica)
Odonate expert Sujith V. Gopalan enthusiastically stated, “These recent finds don’t just amplify the park’s odonate richness; they underscore the existence of diverse microhabitats that are crucial for sustaining such a remarkable number of species – now totaling 109!”
(Image: A close-up of the elegant Blue-necked Reedtail.)
(Image: The unique Dark Daggerhead, another new species found.)
A Testament to Pristine Freshwater Quality
Notably, the survey identified three Euphaea species: Euphaea dispar, E. fraseri, and the newly discovered E. wayanadensis. According to Dr. Gopalan, each of these species acts as a living barometer for freshwater quality, thriving in distinct altitudes and microhabitats. Their presence provides compelling evidence of the outstanding ecological health of the park’s freshwater streams.
(Image: Fraser’s Torrent Hawk, indicating excellent water quality.)
Further highlighting the valley’s critical role as a sanctuary for endemic Western Ghats species, the survey also noted members of the Protosticta genus, including P. mortoni and P. gravelyi, alongside the captivating Saffron Reedtail (Indosticta deccanensis). These species are particularly dependent on very specific, localized habitats, reinforcing the park’s ecological importance.
Beyond the new additions, the survey also brought to light other significant findings, such as the Pale-spotted Bambootail (Caconeura gomphoides), a species exclusively found in the park’s higher elevations. Rare endemic species like the Ruby-tailed Hawklet (Epithemis mariae), Myristica Bambootail (Phylloneura westermanni), and Malabar Bambootail (Melanoneura bilineata) were also observed, further cementing Silent Valley’s status as a biodiversity hotspot.
(Image: The impressive Long Legged Clubtail, another addition to the park’s documented wildlife.)
Dr. Gopalan underscored the significance of these insects, stating, “Odonates serve as vital bio-indicators of ecosystem health. By closely monitoring their populations, we gain invaluable insights into the overall well-being of the diverse habitats they call home.”
He further elaborated that the transect surveys, meticulously conducted along predefined routes, yielded promising initial results. The data gathered from these transects will undergo further rigorous analysis and will be cross-referenced with previous survey findings. This comparative approach aims to forge a more profound understanding of the ecosystem’s ongoing dynamics and long-term trends.
(Image: The distinct Wayanad Torrent Dart, found in the park.)
A Collaborative Effort: 37 Volunteers Make a Difference
This recent survey marked the fourth odonate expedition in Silent Valley since 2019, signifying a sustained commitment to understanding its biodiversity. Experts have indicated that an additional survey is planned for next year, which will contribute to an even more in-depth and comprehensive study of the park’s odonate populations.
The extensive survey operation involved 37 dedicated volunteers and committed forest staff, who spread out across 12 different campsites within the national park.
The survey was officially launched by Silent Valley Wildlife Warden Arulselvan K. Assistant Wildlife Wardens Vishnu V.S. and N. Ganesan also addressed the participants. The expedition was expertly guided by Dr. Gopalan, along with a team of esteemed odonate specialists including Vivek Chandran, Mohammed Sherif, Renjith Jacob Mathews, and Reji Chandran.