Recent studies indicate changes in dragonfly populations in Pune district, Maharashtra. Between 2019 and 2022, eight dragonfly species disappeared while 27 new species were identified. This research marks the impact of environmental changes on biodiversity in the Western Ghats region, known for its rich ecological heritage.
Impact of Land-Use Changes
Land-use changes have been a major factor in the decline of local dragonfly populations. Urbanisation and agriculture have altered habitats. These transformations disrupt the ecosystems that sustain dragonflies and other wildlife. The shift from natural landscapes to developed areas limits the availability of suitable breeding and feeding grounds.
Role of Water Pollution
Increased water pollution has further exacerbated the situation. Contaminants in water bodies degrade the quality of habitats for dragonflies. Polluted water affects their life cycle and reduces their populations. Healthy water systems are crucial for the survival of these species.
Effects of Climate Change
Shifting weather patterns due to climate change have also contributed to the decline. Changes in rainfall and temperature affect the availability of water bodies that support dragonfly life. These shifts can lead to mismatches in breeding cycles and food availability.
Significance of Dragonflies
Dragonflies play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. They are predators of mosquitoes and other pests. Their presence indicates a healthy environment. Monitoring dragonfly populations can serve as a measure of ecosystem health.
Citizen Science Contributions
The study involved collaboration with citizen scientists. Platforms like iNaturalist and the India Biodiversity Portal facilitated the discovery of new species. Citizen contributions were crucial in identifying 28 new dragonfly species, enhancing knowledge of local biodiversity.
Species Richness in Pune District
Pune district boasts a high diversity of dragonfly species. A total of 98 species have been recorded, representing 68% of Maharashtra’s odonate species. The region’s varied habitats, including rivers, ponds, and grasslands, support this rich biodiversity.
Historical Context of Species Decline
Several previously reported species have not been observed for decades. This historical context is essential for understanding current population dynamics. The absence of these species indicates ecological changes over time.
Future Research Directions
Further research is needed to monitor dragonfly populations. About the causes of decline will help in conservation efforts. Protecting habitats and reducing pollution are critical for the survival of these species.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation initiatives must focus on habitat restoration and pollution control. Engaging local communities in conservation can enhance efforts. Awareness programs can educate the public on the importance of dragonflies and their ecosystems.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on biodiversity in the Western Ghats region.
- Estimate the role of citizen science in enhancing biodiversity research and conservation efforts.
- Point out the significance of dragonflies in maintaining ecological balance and their role as bioindicators.
- What are the implications of climate change on freshwater ecosystems? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on biodiversity in the Western Ghats region.
- Urbanisation leads to habitat destruction, reducing the natural landscapes that support diverse species.
- Increased infrastructure development fragments ecosystems, making it difficult for species to migrate and reproduce.
- Pollution from urban areas contaminates water bodies, affecting aquatic life and reducing biodiversity.
- Changes in land use disrupt food chains and ecological interactions, leading to declines in species populations.
- Urban heat islands can alter microclimates, further stressing local flora and fauna.
2. Estimate the role of citizen science in enhancing biodiversity research and conservation efforts.
- Citizen science engages the public in data collection, increasing the volume and diversity of biodiversity records.
- It encourages awareness and education about local ecosystems, leading to greater community involvement in conservation.
- Platforms like iNaturalist enable real-time data sharing, enhancing collaboration between scientists and amateurs.
- Citizen contributions have led to the discovery of previously unrecorded species, enriching scientific knowledge.
- It provides valuable vital information about species distribution and population trends, aiding in conservation planning.
3. Point out the significance of dragonflies in maintaining ecological balance and their role as bioindicators.
- Dragonflies are top predators in aquatic ecosystems, controlling mosquito and pest populations.
- Their presence indicates healthy freshwater habitats, making them effective bioindicators of environmental quality.
- Dragonflies have complex life cycles, reflecting changes in water quality and ecosystem health.
- They contribute to nutrient cycling, supporting the overall functioning of aquatic ecosystems.
- Monitoring dragonfly populations can provide early warnings about ecological disturbances and habitat degradation.
4. What are the implications of climate change on freshwater ecosystems? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Climate change alters precipitation patterns, affecting the availability and quality of freshwater resources.
- Increased temperatures can lead to reduced oxygen levels in water bodies, impacting aquatic life.
- Shifts in seasonal weather can disrupt breeding cycles of species reliant on specific environmental conditions.
- For example, altered rainfall can lead to droughts, reducing habitat availability for species like dragonflies.
- Climate change can exacerbate pollution effects, as higher temperatures can increase the toxicity of pollutants in water.
