2023-12-10

A comprehensive survey of odonates was conducted along the Meenachil River, spanning from Adukkam to Pazhukannilla Lake and encompassing 16 locations. The findings unveiled pollution in the river, the primary water source for Kottayam district. Additionally, the unprecedented climate change-induced rains were observed to impact the diversity of odonates, comprising both dragonflies and damselflies. Recognized as bio-indicators, the presence or absence of odonates serves as a crucial determinant of the overall system's health.

In the eighth edition of the TIES Meenachil Odonate survey, a total of 48 species were documented, comprising 27 dragonfly varieties and 21 damselfly varieties. TIES collaborated with the Social Forestry Division of the Kerala Forest Department for this survey, a continuous effort since 2012. Notably, the survey identified Brachythemis contaminata (Ditch Jewel), an indicator of polluted water, in Kottayam town and its vicinity. Conversely, Rhinocypha bisignata (Stream ruby), indicative of fresh water, was observed in Adukkam, while Neuothemis tullia (Pied Paddy Skimmer) thrived prominently at the midpoint and Pazhukannila Lake, the concluding point. Malarickal and Thiruvanchoor recorded the highest number of species.

Dr. Abraham Samuel K, the survey coordinator, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among the younger generation regarding the significance of odonates. The survey, led by Dr. Nelson P Abraham, included the contributions of Dr. Punnen Kurian, Ajayakumar MN, Amrutha V Raghu, Sreedevi, Shibi Mosses, Manju Marry Mathew, Sarath Babu N B, and Anoopa Mathews. Participants from various educational institutions and organizations actively took part in the survey.