Southernmost Record of the threatened Platycypha amboniensis Martin 1915 (Odonata: Chlorocyphidae), Endemic to the Highlands of Central Kenya

Anthony Karani; Laban Njoroge

doi:10.37486/2675-1305.ec07015

Authors

Anthony Karani University of Embu, Embu, Kenya/Centre for Ecosystem Restoration Kenya, Limuru, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8547-9847
Laban Njoroge National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5853-0990

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37486/2675-1305.ec07015

Keywords:

montane streams, conservation, ecosystem restoration, Brackenhurst Botanical Garden

Abstract

Habitat fragmentation poses a significant global challenge to tropical forests, impacting on species, including endemic aquatic insects. Peripheral populations of range-restricted species are particularly vulnerable in rapidly changing landscapes. This study presents the southernmost occurrence of Kenya Jewel (Platycypha amboniensis Martin, 1915) (Odonata: Chlorocyphidae) and the first from a restored forest in upland Kenya. This damselfly is globally threatened, extremely rare in the region, and is confined to the montane streams of Central Kenya's highlands. This occurrence is compared with the species' distribution in Central Kenya, with a discussion on conservation measures. This finding not only extends the known range and extent of occurrence of P. amboniensis but also provides evidence that the species is persisting in isolated patches outside protected areas, necessitating urgent conservation action.

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