Range Extension And High Altitudinal Record Of <i>Sympetrum meridionale</i> (selys) (Odonata: Libellulidae)

Abstract

The dragonfly Sympetrum meridionale (Selys, 1841) (Odonata-Libellulidae) occurs throughout Asia Minor to Persia and Kashmir. The earlier Indian records of S. meridionale are from Yusimarg, 2286 m, and from below Gulmarg, 2438 m, Kashmir valley. Herein, the range extension and high altitudinal record of this species is reported from the Indus riverine, Leh, Ladakh Union territory of India at an elevation of 3500 m. A note on the habitat, which is entirely different from that of Kashmir valley, its originally known habitat, is provided. Study of museum specimens reveals the eastern most record of the species, from Sikkim and an additional new record from Srinagar. The species diagnosis including comparison of male genitalia, along with the need to validate the previous records from Rajasthan and further surveys along Himalaya and lower latitudes are discussed.