Researchers identify new dragonfly species Lyriothemis keralensis in Kerala

Key facts

• Researchers have identified a new dragonfly species named Lyriothemis keralensis, commonly known as the Slender Bombardier, in the coastal regions of Kerala.
• The study was conducted by a team led by Dr Dattaprasad Sawant, Dr A Vivek Chandran, Renjith Jacob Mathews, and Dr Krushnamegh Kunte, and published in the International Journal of Odonatology.
• The species was first spotted in 2013 in the Varappetty area of Kothamangalam and was initially mistaken for Lyriothemis acigastra, also known as the Little Bloodtail.
• Lyriothemis keralensis measures approximately three centimetres in length and features a slimmer abdomen with a unique tail and genital structure.
• Male dragonflies of this species possess a deep blood-red abdomen with black markings, while females are broader with yellow and black colouring.
• The species thrives in human-modified irrigation landscapes such as pineapple and rubber plantations rather than protected forest areas.
• The dragonfly primarily inhabits shaded canals and seasonal pools within agricultural land and is typically active during the monsoon season.