New Dragonfly Species Discovered in Wayanad

A recent collaborative effort by researchers in Kerala has led to the discovery of a new dragonfly species in the lush environs of Wayanad, aptly named the Red-rumped Hawklet (Epithemis wayanadensis).

• The discovery occurred during an investigation into the odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) of Kerala and a study of dragonfly populations that resembled the Ruby-tailed Hawklet (Epithemis mariae), a species native to the Western Ghats.
• Epithemis mariae is a small dragonfly known for its blackish-brown and red colouration in males and golden-yellow and black hues in females.
• It is a seasonal species found exclusively during the southwest monsoon ....