Scarlet Dragonfly Discovered in Western Ghats Kerala

More recently, the Western Ghats, which is of great biodiversity, was again in the limelight following the rediscovery of the scarlet dragonfly (Crocothemis erythraea) in cool high altitude valleys of Munnar in Kerala. This is a rare occurrence which has pleased the naturalists and researchers since the species are normally found in warmer and lowland areas and not in mountainous areas which are colder.

A Rare Visitor in Munnar

Scarlet dragonfly or scarlet darter or broad scarlet is an ugly looking insect. Males have a bright crimson red body and females and young ones are yellow brown in colour with faint streaks. Such dragonflies normally like open wetlands, ponds, and slow flowing rivers where they reproduce and feed. It is possible that they changed their habitat preference or climate-driven adaptations as shown by their discovery in the cold climate of Munnar.

Scientific Adventure of Rediscovery.

Interestingly, the dragonfly was photographed first in a faunal search in 2018 and mentioned in reports that were released in 2021. Nevertheless, its validity in identification was questioned which led to its exit of official species records. This has now been reestablished by comparable confirmations of odonatologists (dragonfly experts) and the significance of ongoing fieldwork and accurate documentation.

Behaviour and Habitat

Scarlet dragonflies are the most problematic in the early morning and in the late afternoon and prefer open banks to forests. Their fast flight manners and bright colors have made them the favorite of the wildlife lovers and photographers. The rediscovery of Munnar emphasizes on the flexibility of the species and its survival in unforeseen ecological circumstances.

Conservation implication.

It is not just a scientific achievement that made this rediscovery but it highlights the ecological diversity of the Western Ghats and the importance of conserving vulnerable habitats. In the case of Munnar that is already a famous tourism destination, the existence of such a rare species would be a boost to the eco-tourism, but it would have to be managed in a sustainable manner. The conservationists think the incident is a positive and a warning sign that we need to be careful with the changes that happen to the environment and the survival of species.

Conclusion

The fact that the scarlet dragonfly can be found in highlands of Kerala serves to remind us that the Western Ghats remain a mystery to a large number of people. As climate change and habitat shifts affect the biodiversity, continuous research and preservation practice is still necessary to save some of such rare and beautiful species.