Euphaea wayanadensis

Euphaea Wayanadensis Latest News

A new species of damselfly, Euphaea wayanadensis, has been discovered in the Wayanad region of the Western Ghats, Kerala.

• This discovery adds to Kerala’s 191st recorded odonate species and the 223rd odonate species documented from the Western Ghats. The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal ENTOMON.

About Euphaea wayanadensis

• Classification: Belongs to the family Euphaeidae.
• First sightings: Initially observed in 2013 at the Kalindi River, Thirunelli, in Wayanad district, Kerala.
• Further sightings occurred from 2013 to 2019 in Wayanad, followed by more observations from 2019 to 2023 in Aralam (Kannur, Kerala) and the western slopes of Coorg (Karnataka).
• Identification challenges:
  • Initially misidentified as Euphaea pseudodispar, a species from Maharashtra.
  • Later confirmed as a distinct species through detailed morphological study and genetic analysis.

Key Morphological Features

• Distinctive hind wing: Features a longer black patch compared to related species.
• Striking colouration: Males display broader and uninterrupted humeral and antehumeral stripes.
• Unique genital structure: The male genital vesicle exhibits structural traits that differ from closely related species.

Habitat and Distribution

• Prefers fast-flowing streams with rocky beds and aquatic vegetation.
• Thrives in evergreen and semi-evergreen forest regions along stream banks.
• Active throughout the year, except in the dry seasons of March and April.
• Shows highly restricted distribution, making it vulnerable to habitat loss and climate change.

Euphaea Wayanadensis FAQs

Q1. What is Euphaea wayanadensis?
Ans. It is a species of damselfly endemic to the Western Ghats, particularly found in Kerala. 

Q2. Why is Euphaea wayanadensis important for ecology?
Ans. It acts as an indicator of freshwater ecosystem health since damselflies are sensitive to water pollution.

Q3. Where was Euphaea wayanadensis first discovered?
Ans. It was first described in Wayanad, Kerala, hence the name "wayanadensis."

Source: TH