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Context:

A recent study shows that 8 dragonfly species have gone locally extinct in Pune district.  This research shows the impact of urbanization and other factors on local dragonfly populations.

What is Deccan Peninsula biogeographic zone?

• The Deccan Peninsula biogeographic zone refers to a large region in south-central India, known for a semi-arid climate.
• It is primarily lying in the rain shadow of the Western Ghats.
• It covers a diverse range of tropical forests including teak and sal trees.
• This makes it one of the major biogeographic zones of India;
• This area includes states (Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, & Karnataka, with Central Highlands, Chotanagpur Plateau, & Eastern Ghats).

Key Findings

• Extinct Species: 8 dragonfly species have gone extinct from Pune.
• New Species: 27 new species was also discovered. Now total known odonate species are around 98 in the district.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: The Western Ghats has around 203 odonate species, including 84 endemics.

About Odonata Species

Odonata is one of the oldest insect groups.

It is an insect category that includes 3 main groups: Anisoptera (dragonflies), Zygoptera (damselflies), and Anisozygoptera (a small group with only two living species).

Species Variety

• There are nearly 6,000 known species around the world.

Global Presence

• They are found in various regions, from tropical areas to the cold forests of Siberia and North America.
• They are also found in the Southern Hemisphere except for Antarctica.
• India also has a rich diversity with 500+ known species.

Living Environment

• They live in different freshwater like ponds, rivers, & lakes.
• They are mostly connected to water bodies during their larval phase.

Unique features

• About 80% of their brain is engaged in processing visual data.
• Physical Appearance: Large, active during daytime, & vividly colored.
• Feeding: They are Skilled hunters with mouth designed for biting.
• Predatory Nature: Both adult odonates and their larvae are aggressive predators.

What was the reason for extinction?

• There are many reasons for the extinction of these species. These factors include land-use changes, increased water pollution, changing weather patterns, & rapid urbanization.
• These Dragonflies are important insect predators that help to regulate mosquito & pest populations.

Source: DTE