Silent Valley National Park
Why in news?
Researchers and forest department staff documented six new odonate (dragonfly and damselfly) species during a survey held from October 10-12, 2025.
Newly recorded species
- Long-legged Clubtail (Merogomphus longistigma)
- Fraser’s Torrent Hawk (Macromia irata)
- Dark Daggerhead (Macromidia donaldi)
- Blue-necked Reedtail (Protosticta mortoni)
- Wayanad Torrent Dart (Euphaea wayanadensis)
- Black and Yellow Bambootail (Elattoneura tetrica)
Many of these species are endemic to the Western Ghats and are sensitive indicators of freshwater and forest health, highlighting the park as a critical habitat for rare and localised fauna.
Ecological and Conservation Insights
- The discovery of these odonates underscores the park’s microhabitat diversity and stability, suggesting minimal pollution and well-preserved aquatic systems.
- Odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) are bioindicators; their presence and diversity reveal important information about forest health and freshwater quality.
Key facts about Silent Valley National Park
- Location: Kerala, in the Nilgiri hills, about 40 km northwest of Mannarkkad.
- Area: Core zone: 89.52 sq.km; Buffer zone: 148 sq.km.
- Formation: Declared a National Park in 1984, inaugurated in 1985.
- Ecosystem: Home to tropical moist evergreen rainforest, unique micro-climate, and diverse wildlife.
- Biodiversity:
- Over 41 mammals, 211 birds, 49 reptiles, 47 amphibians, 12 fish species, 164 butterflies, and 400 moth species recorded.
- Lion-tailed macaque is the flagship species; other prominent fauna include Malabar giant squirrel, Black monkey, elephants, and various endemic species.
- Rivers: Kunthipuzha River flows through the park, originating from the Nilgiri hills.
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