EnvironmentSource: The Hindu
Rediscovery of Long-tailed Duskhawker in Arunachal Pradesh
Friday, 29 May 2026
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The rediscovery of the rare dragonfly, Gynacantha khasiaca, known as the long-tailed duskhawker, in Arunachal Pradesh's Namdapha National Park is a significant biodiversity milestone. This matters for UPSC aspirants focusing on GS Paper 3, which covers biodiversity and conservation. Last Updated: 29-05-2026
Key Facts About the Long-tailed Duskhawker
- Definition: The long-tailed duskhawker, Gynacantha khasiaca, is a species of dragonfly belonging to the order Odonata.
- Objective: These dragonflies are crucial for maintaining freshwater ecosystem balance as both predators and prey.
- Key Provisions: Rediscovered in Namdapha National Park, approximately 600 km east of its last sighting in 1914.
- Numbers/Targets: The genus Gynacantha includes 92 species globally, with 10 found in India.
- Outcomes: The rediscovery highlights the region's rich biodiversity, with 504 Odonata species recorded in India.
- Distribution: Found in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal, with Indian sightings in states like Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
India's Biodiversity Conservation Efforts
The rediscovery of the long-tailed duskhawker underscores India's commitment to biodiversity conservation, aligning with national goals to preserve ecological balance. Arunachal Pradesh's rich biodiversity, including 110 Odonata species, contributes to India's global standing in biodiversity. Such findings are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting India's strategic conservation initiatives.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology - Biodiversity and Conservation
- Prelims Angle: Questions could focus on the characteristics of the long-tailed duskhawker and its habitat.
- Mains Angle: Analytical themes could include the significance of biodiversity conservation in India.
- Essay Paper: Topics on environmental conservation and biodiversity importance.
FAQ Section
- What is the long-tailed duskhawker? The long-tailed duskhawker, Gynacantha khasiaca, is a rare dragonfly species rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh, significant for its role in freshwater ecosystems.
- Why is the long-tailed duskhawker important? This species is crucial for ecological balance, serving as both predator and prey in aquatic food webs, highlighting the importance of biodiversity.
- What are the key features of the long-tailed duskhawker? It has two compound eyes with thousands of lenses, providing excellent vision, and is known for its pale brown and green coloration.
Detailed Coverage
- Gynacantha khasiaca is the scientific name of the long-tailed duskhawker.
- Last recorded in 1914, it was rediscovered in Changlang district.
- The recent sighting occurred in Namdapha National Park.
- It belongs to the order Odonata, which includes dragonflies and damselflies.
- These insects are vital for freshwater ecosystems.
- The long-tailed duskhawker has exceptional visual abilities.
- The genus Gynacantha includes 92 species globally.
- Arunachal Pradesh is home to 110 species of Odonata.
- 17 Odonata species were recorded during recent studies.
- Long-tailed duskhawker is also found in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal.
- Namdapha National Park is located along the India–Myanmar border.
- Designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1972, it became a National Park in 1983.
- The park hosts four big cat species and the endangered Hoolock Gibbon.
- It features diverse vegetation types, including tropical and temperate forests.
- This rediscovery underscores the need for conservation efforts.
- It highlights significant findings about biodiversity in India.
Environment