Protosticta sooryaprakashi:
A new species of damselfly named, Protosticta sooryaprakashi, sporting vibrant sky-blue markings, has been recently discovered in the biodiversity hotspots of India’s Western Ghats.
- It is a new species of damselfly.
- Named the Kodagu Shadowdamsel, it was discovered in Karnataka’s Kodagu district.
- The species has been named in honour of the late Dr. Sooryaprakash Shenoy, a renowned botanist.
- Sporting striking sky-blue markings, the Kodagu Shadowdamsel thrives in low-light habitats and requires pristine environmental conditions to breed.
- Its presence is a strong indicator of a healthy ecosystem with minimal pollution.
- Despite its resemblance to its close relatives, its slender build makes it the thinnest member of the damselfly family.
- Unlike dragonflies, which inhabit bright, sunny spaces, damselflies like the Kodagu Shadow damsel favour cool, shaded areas, making sightings rare and significant.
