Saffron Reedtail Damselfly Discovery in Western Ghats

Saffron Reedtail Damselfly

A remarkable discovery has been made in the Western Ghats—Indosticta deccanensis, commonly known as the saffron reedtail damselfly, has been spotted in Madhugundi village, Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka. This marks the first recorded sighting of the species in the northernmost part of the Western Ghats, expanding its known range beyond Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Distinctive Features

• Measuring less than two inches, the saffron reedtail is a small yet striking damselfly.
• It boasts a cinnamon-colored thorax and transparent wings, setting it apart from other species.
• As part of the Platystictidae family (shadow damselflies), it is known for its delicate and slender frame, making it difficult to spot without expert observation.

Habitat & Distribution

• These damselflies prefer slow-moving forest streams with clean water and dense vegetation.
• The new discovery in Madhugundi suggests a wider ecological range, reinforcing the importance of habitat conservation.
• Their sensitivity to environmental shifts makes them a bioindicator species, highlighting ecosystem health.

Ecological Significance

• The presence of saffron reedtails signals pristine environmental conditions—they thrive only in unpolluted habitats.
• Their lifecycle is closely tied to water quality, making conservation efforts crucial to their survival.
• Protecting these habitats from threats like deforestation, pollution, and climate change is essential to sustaining their population.

Scientific & Conservation Efforts

• The Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot, home to 196 species of odonates, with 175 recorded in Kerala alone.
• Odonates respond swiftly to environmental changes; for example, during the COVID-19 lockdown, their populations increased in urban areas, showcasing their sensitivity to human activity.
• The Society for Odonate Studies (SOS) continues to lead research and conservation initiatives for these species.

Historical Context & Local Significance

• First described by British biologist Frank Fortescue Laidlaw, the saffron reedtail is endemic to the Western Ghats.
• Unlike many other species, it is rarely found in urban areas.
• These damselflies are most commonly spotted during the monsoon months (June to November).
• In Malayalam, they are locally referred to as ‘kumkuma nizhal thumbi’.

Looking Ahead: The Need for Further Research

Despite ongoing studies, much remains unknown about odonates and their role in the ecosystem. Continuous research is vital to understanding their behavioral patterns and responses to environmental stressors. The conservation of these species will not only protect biodiversity but also maintain the delicate ecological balance of the Western Ghats.