A comprehensive study conducted by researchers from MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) in Pune, in collaboration with the Society for Odonate Studies, has revealed a concerning 35% gap in the biodiversity of dragonflies and damselflies in the Western Ghats, a region known for its rich biodiversity. Over a two-year period, from February 2021 to March 2023, researchers surveyed 144 sites across five Indian states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala. They recorded only 143 distinct species of Odonata, compared to approximately 200 species historically documented, indicating a significant decline in these ecologically important insects.

The study, published on April 21, 2026, highlights that species diversity is notably higher in the southern part of the Western Ghats, while the northern regions show lower diversity. Pankaj Koparde, the lead researcher, emphasized that habitat loss due to developmental projects is likely a major contributor to this decline. Odonates are particularly vulnerable to environmental disturbances, making their reduced presence a potential early warning of ecological degradation, such as declining water quality and habitat fragmentation.

The research also identified various threats to these species, including infrastructure development, pollution, and climate change. The data revealed significant regional variations in species presence, with Maharashtra documenting the highest number of species. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts and ongoing ecological monitoring to address the alarming trends in biodiversity loss.