Itanagar, June 2:
In a remarkable rediscovery that highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh, researchers have documented the rare Long-tailed Duskhawker dragonfly (Gynacantha khasiaca) in Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve after more than 110 years. The species was sighted at Deban during a biodiversity survey conducted in October 2024 and later confirmed through photographic evidence.
The finding, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, marks the first confirmed record of the species in the state since 1914, when it was last documented during the historic Abor Expedition. The rediscovery was made by researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi, and Roshan Upadhya during an eight-day biodiversity assessment along the Miao–Vijaynagar Road within the protected area.
The Long-tailed Duskhawker is distinguished by its striking green eyes, transparent wings, and elongated abdomen. Owing to its rarity and the limited number of records available, very little is known about its ecology, distribution, and population status. The species is currently classified as Data Deficient, emphasizing the need for further research and monitoring. Scientists say the discovery underscores the ecological significance of Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, one of India's richest biodiversity hotspots located in the Eastern Himalayas near the India–Myanmar border.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed the discovery and congratulated the researchers for their contribution to biodiversity documentation and scientific knowledge. He stated, “Kudos to researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi and Roshan Upadhya for documenting this significant finding and contributing to our understanding of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich natural heritage.” He further noted that such discoveries reaffirm the importance of conserving unique ecosystems and strengthening efforts towards scientific research and habitat protection.
Conservationists and researchers have described the rediscovery as a significant milestone for biodiversity conservation in the region, demonstrating that Arunachal Pradesh’s forests continue to hold many unexplored biological treasures. The finding reinforces the importance of sustained field surveys, scientific monitoring, and habitat conservation efforts across the Eastern Himalayas.
Beyond enriching the state's biodiversity records, the rediscovery of Gynacantha khasiaca serves as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s global ecological significance and highlights the critical role of research and conservation in safeguarding its unique natural heritage for future generations.
