Ayikkara Vivek Chandran * 
1, Puthukudy Kunjamu Muneer2 , Maran Madhavan3 , Subin Kaniyamattathil Jose4
1, Puthukudy Kunjamu Muneer2 , Maran Madhavan3 , Subin Kaniyamattathil Jose4
1- Aqua Research Lab, Department of Geology and Environmental Science, Christ College (Autonomous), Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, the University of Calicut, Thenhipalam, Kerala, India & Society for Odonate Studies, Vellooparampil, Kuzhimattom PO, Kottayam, Kerala, India , avivekchandran2@gmail.com
2- Ferns Nature Conservation Society, PB No. 28, Mananthavady, Wayanad, Kerala, India
3- Ferns Nature Conservation Society, PB No. 28, Mananthavady, Wayanad, Kerala, India & Tholpetty eco-development committee, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala 670646, India
4- Aqua Research Lab, Department of Geology and Environmental Science, Christ College (Autonomous), Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, the University of Calicut, Thenhipalam, Kerala, India
2- Ferns Nature Conservation Society, PB No. 28, Mananthavady, Wayanad, Kerala, India
3- Ferns Nature Conservation Society, PB No. 28, Mananthavady, Wayanad, Kerala, India & Tholpetty eco-development committee, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala 670646, India
4- Aqua Research Lab, Department of Geology and Environmental Science, Christ College (Autonomous), Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, the University of Calicut, Thenhipalam, Kerala, India
Abstract: (111 Views)
Odonata diversity of the Kuruva Islands in Wayanad, a part of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot in southern India, was studied for a year using transect counts. A total of 59 species were recorded of which 7 are endemic to the Western Ghats. Herb cover, shrub cover, open space, water pH, air temperature, and a composite water chemistry variable incorporating conductivity, TDS, and salinity emerged as the most important predictors of Odonata diversity. The distribution of the endemic and Vulnerable Disparoneura apicalis (Fraser, 1924) in the islands is influenced by particular species of plants that act as their perching posts and ovipositing sites. It is recommended that the tourists visiting the Kuruva Islands be sensitized about the importance of the place as an odonate habitat. The highly range-restricted D. apicalis can be made a flagship species for the conservation of this unique ecosystem.
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