A critically endangered dragonfly species, bekko tombo, has reappeared in the area around Beijing's Shangzhuang Reservoir, according to local water authority officials.

The dragonfly, measuring about 3 centimeters in length with a deep brown body and distinct black spots on its wings, was discovered by a team of water ecology monitoring experts from the Haidian district water authority.

The bekko tombo was once common in wetlands and rivers across north and east China. However, its population has plummeted since the early 2000s due to urban environmental degradation, bringing it close to extinction.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the species as Critically Endangered in 2006, a status more severe than that of the giant panda. It shares this classification with other critically endangered species, such as the Chinese sturgeon and the Baiji dolphin.

Li Yuanjing, director of the Haidian District Soil and Water Conservation Station, said that the district has been monitoring water ecology for three consecutive years, with Shangzhuang Reservoir a key monitoring site this year. The lush reeds along the shore, the graceful dance of waterbirds, the sprawling patches of water chestnuts and lotus flowers, and the clear, gently flowing water provide an ideal habitat for the bekko tombo.

The dragonfly's return signals improving biodiversity in the district, with other rare and protected species also making a comeback as habitats are restored.

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)