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Munnar Reveals Hidden Biodiversity: 11 New Species Found
9 Jun
Summary
- Eleven previously unrecorded species were documented in Munnar's high-altitude landscape.
- Seven new dragonfly and damselfly species were added to the division's checklist.
- The discovery highlights Munnar's conservation importance and its pristine ecosystems.
A significant faunal survey conducted in the Munnar wildlife division has revealed 11 new species, previously unrecorded in this high-altitude region of the southern Western Ghats. The survey, organized by the Munnar wildlife division and the Travancore Nature History Society from May 21 to 24, has expanded the known biodiversity of this crucial landscape.
The most notable additions include seven species of dragonflies and damselflies, bringing the total odonate species count to 82. Several of these are endemic to the Western Ghats and are sensitive indicators of freshwater ecosystem health. Three butterfly species and the occasional visitor, the Common swift, were also documented, increasing the butterfly and bird species lists to 260 and 263, respectively.
Researchers emphasize that the presence of these habitat-restricted species highlights the vital conservation importance of the Munnar landscape and its protected areas. These scientific surveys are instrumental in understanding species distribution and monitoring ecosystem health, thus guiding conservation priorities for this biodiverse region.
