Epithemis Wayanadensis

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Overview:

Recently, a new dragonfly species has been discovered in the verdant landscapes of Wayanad and it has been given the scientific nomenclature Epithemis wayanadensis.

About Epithemis Wayanadensis

  • It is also known as Red-rumped Hawklet.
  • It starts flying exclusively during the month of October.
  • This species was found amidst the foliage of shrubs flourishing along a shaded streamside marsh near Wayanad’s forested terrain, as well as parts of the Nilgiri Coorg landscapes within the Western Ghats.
  • Appearance: This newfound species is distinguished by its darker pigmentation, a restricted red coloration on the abdomen, and the absence of the yellow antehumeral stripe.
  • This is the first instance of an Indian dragonfly being documented with genetic evidence substantiating morphological distinctions.

Key facts about the Western Ghats

  • It is also called Sahyadri, north–south-running range of mountains in western India. 
  • It forms the crest of the western edge of the Deccan plateau parallel to the Malabar Coast of the Arabian Sea.
  • The Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot, a biologically rich but threatened region, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • They play a huge role in India’s monsoon weather pattern. 

Q1:What is Genetics?

Genetics is the scientific study of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms. Genes are the units of heredity that carry genetic information from one generation to the next. They determine the traits and characteristics of organisms, including humans. 

Source: New dragonfly species discovered in Wayanad