Dragonflies are bellwethers of earth’s ecosystems
This article explores the evolutionary history and ecological significance of dragonflies. It highlights their status as ancient flying insects that serve as important indicators of ecosystem health.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of insects like dragonflies is essential for biodiversity conservation and monitoring environmental changes.
In the imagination of children, flying holds a special place. Folded pieces of paper become airplanes ready to be launched, eager gazes follow soaring eagles, and dragonflies are the helicopters of their fantasies.
Dragonflies (called sitara in Hindi) are indeed wonders of flight. These insects belong to a lineage whose members were among the planet’s first flying organisms. About 300 million years ago, their ancient kin had the same aerodynamic features, but with a wingspan that extended to 72 cm. The spectacle of these giant ancestors of dragonflies would have left any modern observer spellbound.
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