Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Euphaea wayanadensis, a newly identified damselfly species, was discovered in Kerala’s Wayanad region, located in the Western Ghats — a recognized biodiversity hotspot. This discovery brings Kerala’s odonate species count to 191 and adds to the ecological significance of the Western Ghats, now home to 223 known odonate species. The damselfly inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams in evergreen and semi-evergreen forest areas and is distinguished by unique wing and thorax markings. Its narrow distribution and sensitivity to habitat changes highlight the importance of conservation efforts in the region to protect such endemic and ecologically valuable species.