NEW DELHI: Scientists have confirmed the discovery of a previously unknown species of dragonfly in the low-lying coastal farmlands of Kerala, marking a significant addition to India’s biodiversity. The species has been named Lyriothemis keralensis and is commonly referred to as the Slender Bombardier.
The identification comes after more than ten years of field research and analysis. The findings were published in the International Journal of Odonatology following extensive examination of both live specimens and historical records.
The dragonfly was first observed in 2013 in the Varappetty region of Kothamangalam in central Kerala. At the time, researchers believed it belonged to Lyriothemis acigastra, commonly known as the Little Bloodtail, a species typically found in northeast India.
However, continued observations and detailed anatomical studies revealed consistent differences in physical structure and behaviour, prompting scientists to recognise it as a distinct species native to Kerala.
According to researchers, Lyriothemis keralensis is distinguished by its slender abdomen, unique tail formation, and distinct genital structure. Male dragonflies display a striking deep blood-red abdomen with black markings, while females are slightly broader with yellow-and-black coloration.
The species measures approximately three centimetres in length. Its classification was further supported by the examination of century-old specimens preserved in museum collections, confirming that the species had existed unnoticed for decades.
Unlike many dragonfly species that thrive in protected forest ecosystems, the Slender Bombardier prefers human-modified landscapes. Researchers found it primarily in irrigation canals, shaded water channels, and seasonal pools within pineapple and rubber plantations.
This unusual habitat preference highlights the ecological importance of agricultural landscapes, which are often overlooked in biodiversity studies.
Vivek Chandran, one of the researchers involved in the study, emphasised the need to expand conservation efforts beyond forested areas.
“Biodiversity protection should not be limited only to forests. Many species, including dragonflies, depend on habitats within human-dominated landscapes,” he said.
The dragonfly appears mainly during the monsoon season and disappears as water levels drop after the rains.
Scientists warned that the survival of Lyriothemis keralensis depends heavily on the protection of fragile microhabitats within farmlands. Since the species does not inhabit national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, its future rests largely on sustainable agricultural practices and responsible land-use planning.
The discovery serves as a reminder that India’s biodiversity is not confined to remote forests but thrives even in everyday landscapes shaped by human activity.