13 new species of dragonfly located in Goa
PTI, PANAJI | 28 March 2014 20:53 IST
Ceriagrion rubaea. Photo: Parag Rangnekar
Thirteen new species of dragonfly have been identified in Goa, taking the total number of species in the state to 87.
Among these 13 species, one belongs to a completely new family of dragonflies – Macromiidae - whose existence in the state was completely unknown.
"The researchers surveyed varied habitats in Goa from August 2011 to July 2012, especially forest habitats to document the odonate (dragonfly) diversity," stated Parag Rangnekar, a researcher and author of book 'A Photographic Guide to Butterflies of Goa' who along with Rohan Naik presented the paper.
They scouted through the forests of Sanguem, Ponda, Tiswadi, Dharbandora, Canacona and Sattari talukas, before documenting these additional new species of dragonflies.
The individual specimens were photo-documented from various angles and these images were cross-checked with identification manuals, Rangnekar said.
"Collection and killing was avoided for species which could be visually identified. For difficult species, specimens were collected using sweep nets, kept in paper envelopes and then preserved in 70 percent alcohol," he said.
As compared to the known diversity of Odonates from Peninsular India, which is around 200, the present species count is surely an underestimate, he said.
"We strongly believe that sustained and co-ordinated efforts are necessary for documenting the odonate diversity of the state," he said, adding that this is possible through networking between the government and researchers for which the department of forest can act as the nodal agency.
"Further, since odonates are indicator species, it is necessary that other than diversity, abundance studies and long-term monitoring need to be taken up for major water bodies in the state," Rangnekar said.
Dragonflies, characterised by large multifaceted eyes, two pairs of strong transparent wings, and an elongated body, are among the fastest flying insects in the world.
These insects are important predators that eat mosquitoes, and other small insects like flies, bees, ants, wasps, and very rarely butterflies. They are usually found around marshes, lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands.
Drop a comment
Latest News
- 20 Kannadigas across the border affected by Goa's monkey fever
- No politician could save Goa like ex-Guv Jacob: MLAs
- Spills and Thrills mark Goa’s first Mountain Biking Race
- Trick Trick… new species of ‘cricket’ frog found, named after ‘Goa’
- Only 50 Goan villages are eco-sensitive, not 99
- Madhav Gadgil & Jane chosen for US-based Tytler Prize
- 'Nachom-ia Kumpasar' wins 3 national awards, Special Mention of Palomi
- W Ghat has hidden treasure, rare species still found
- TV scribe cycles 4 states to save Western Ghat
- Centre's decision on buffer zone by 15 Sept: CM
Environment
- Monsoon may reach Goa, Maharashtra before time
- HC stops Resorts and Marinas on Goan coastline
- Goa now plans a Birds Festival
- Govt disilting whole Sal River to build Verna-Dharmapur bypass on NH17
- Despite opposition, Guv clears controversial ‘coconut bill’
- Sri Sri Event Cleared, With 5 Crore Fine And Conditions
- Will Guv give assent to the ‘coconut bill’ or refer it back to the House?
- Farm House owners, farmers want ‘Coconut Museum’; support the bill
- Goa's Pollution Control Board goes for paperless approvals
- Falcated Duck sighted in South Goa
