Euphaea Wayanadensis

04.04.2025

Euphaea Wayanadensis

Why in the news?                        

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

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 pseudo dispar, 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.

                                                           Source: The Hindu

A newly discovered species of damselfly, Euphaea wayanadensis, was found in which Indian State?

A.Tamil Nadu

B.Kerala

C.Karnataka

D.Andhra Pradesh

 Answer B