NEWS: A rare dragonfly species named Gynacantha khasiaca has been rediscovered in: Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Species Details

• Gynacantha khasiaca is: A rare species of dragonfly.
• It is commonly called: Long-tailed Duskhawker.

Location of Rediscovery

• Rediscovered from: Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh.

Historical Background

The species was first described in: 1914.

• It was originally recorded from: The erstwhile Abor Hills region of Arunachal Pradesh.
• After more than a century, it has now been rediscovered.

Unique Features of Dragonflies

Nearly 360° Vision

• Dragonflies have: Two large compound eyes.
• Each eye contains: Thousands of tiny lenses.
• This gives them: Near 360-degree vision.

Strong Flying Ability

• Dragonflies can: Hover in air, Fly rapidly in different directions.
• They are efficient aerial predators.

Why are Dragonflies Ecologically Important?

Indicators of Healthy Ecosystems

• Dragonflies are considered: Bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health.
• Their presence indicates: Clean water, healthy wetlands and forests.

Role in Food Chain

• Dragonflies are: Predators of insects.

They help control: Mosquitoes and pests