Dragonfly Population Surges by 54% in Delhi Biodiversity Parks

According to a recent census, the population of dragonflies and damselflies in Delhi's biodiversity parks has seen a significant surge over the past year. Between September 25-27, 2025, scientists documented a total of 13,253 individuals, up from 8,630 sightings in 2024 - a remarkable 54% increase.

The survey, which covered seven DDA biodiversity parks, involved participation from students of Delhi University colleges. Faiyaz Khudsar, the scientist in charge of the DDA biodiversity program, explained that these invertebrates are valuable indicators of urban biodiversity, as their presence reflects the water quality and surrounding vegetation.

Khudsar attributed the surge in numbers to the continuous heavy rains this year, which created numerous temporary water bodies and expanded breeding habitats for the dragonflies and damselflies. Interestingly, this increase has also led to a decline in mosquito populations, as these insects are natural biological controls for mosquitoes.

The census also revealed a rise in the number of species, from 94 to 118 this year. Notably, a new species, the yellow-tailed ashy kimmer, was observed in the Yamuna biodiversity park, potentially a new addition to Delhi's ecosystem. Other commonly sighted species include the rudy marsh skimmer and the golden dartlet.

The Kamla Nehru Ridge, Aravalli, and Kalindi biodiversity parks saw particularly significant increases in dragonfly and damselfly populations compared to previous years, underscoring the importance of these green spaces in supporting urban biodiversity.