26th September 2025 (13 Topics)
1
Sep
2
Sep
3
Sep
4
Sep
5
Sep
6
Sep
8
Sep
9
Sep
10
Sep
11
Sep
12
Sep
13
Sep
15
Sep
16
Sep
17
Sep
18
Sep
19
Sep
20
Sep
22
Sep
23
Sep
24
Sep
25
Sep
26
Sep
27
Sep
Dragonfly Biodiversity Survey
Context:
A three-day survey has begun across seven biodiversity parks in Delhi to monitor dragonflies and damselflies, as part of a larger effort to assess ecosystem health and biodiversity.
Background of the Survey
- Conducted by students of Shyama Prasad Mukherji College at seven Delhi Development Authority (DDA) biodiversity parks.
- Annual exercise carried out since 2018 to monitor populations of dragonflies and damselflies.
- Surveys at Kamla Nehru Ridge Biodiversity Park and other locations aim to assess habitat health and species diversity.
Ecological Significance of Dragonflies
- Bioindicators of Ecosystem Health
- Dragonflies and damselflies are dependent on wetlands and freshwater ecosystems for breeding and development.
- Presence and diversity indicate healthy aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
- Pest Control and Food Web Contribution
- They feed on mosquitoes and other small insects, controlling disease vectors such as malaria and dengue.
- Serve as prey for birds, amphibians, and other wildlife, forming a critical link in the ecosystem.
Observations and Findings
- Sudden surge in dragonfly population attributed to increased water levels, wetland restoration, and improved habitat conditions.
- Restoration projects such as Kamla Nehru Ridge rejuvenation have improved hydrological patterns and created microhabitats like shallow pools and marshy fringes.
- Kamla Nehru Ridge recorded a maximum count of 3,150 dragonflies and damselflies, a significant increase over previous years.
Threats to Dragonfly Populations
- Habitat Loss: Urbanisation, encroachment, and wetland degradation reduce suitable habitats.
- Climate Change: Changing rainfall patterns and temperatures affect breeding cycles.
- Pollution: Water pollution, especially from sewage discharge, negatively impacts larvae development.
- Invasive Species: Alter ecosystem balance and displace native species.
Broader Ecological Implications
- Dragonflies act as early warning indicators for ecosystem changes.
- Decline in their populations signals degradation of wetlands and freshwater resources.
- Conservation of dragonflies contributes to biodiversity preservation, climate resilience, and public health.
More Articles
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More