Scarlet Dragonfly Spotted in Munnar

A rare and beautiful species of dragonfly, the scarlet dragonfly (Crocothemis erythraea), has recently been spotted in the valleys of Munnar, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. This discovery has captured the interest of entomologists and nature enthusiasts, marking a significant moment for the biodiversity of the region.

About the Scarlet Dragonfly

Scientific Classification:

• Scientific Name: Crocothemis erythraea

• Common Names: Broad scarlet, common scarlet-darter, and scarlet darter.

Distribution:

• The scarlet dragonfly is generally found in southern Europe, throughout Africa, and across western Asia, extending to as far as southern China.

• Although it is common in these regions, this species is known to sometimes travel far from its usual habitat, making its recent appearance in Munnar an interesting find.

Habitat:

• Scarlet dragonflies prefer to live near sunny water bodies like rivers, streams, and ponds.

• They thrive in sunlit areas, avoiding places with heavy shade. Their habitat requirements make regions with access to water, like Munnar, ideal for them.

Physical Features:

• The scarlet dragonfly has a length of 33–44 mm (1.3–1.7 inches) and is characterized by a flattened and broad abdomen.

• Male Dragonfly:

  • The male has a bright scarlet-red abdomen that is notably widened, with small amber patches at the bases of the hindwings.

  • The veins along the leading edges of the wings are also red, adding to its striking appearance.

• Female and Immature Dragonflies:

  • These are typically yellow-brown in color with a distinct pale stripe running along the top of the thorax.

Conservation Implications:

• The presence of rare species such as the scarlet dragonfly indicates that the region's ecosystem is healthy, but it also underscores the importance of protecting such habitats from environmental threats like pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

• Biodiversity hotspots like Munnar serve as crucial indicators of ecosystem health. This discovery may encourage further conservation efforts to ensure the protection of both aquatic and terrestrial species in the region.