AI Generated Summary
- A groundbreaking study from Punjabi University, Patiala, has shed new light on the evolutionary relationships of dragonflies, one of the oldest groups of winged insects on Earth.
- Additionally, DNA data for 28 sequences from 21 species was submitted to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database, and a total of 112 sequences from 80 species were analysed to map evolutionary relationships.
- “Such studies enhance the academic reputation of Punjabi University and showcase the world-class research being carried out here,” he said while congratulating Singh and Prof.
A groundbreaking study from Punjabi University, Patiala, has shed new light on the evolutionary relationships of dragonflies, one of the oldest groups of winged insects on Earth. The research, conducted by Hardeep Singh under the guidance of Prof. Gurinder Kaur Walia from the Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, has not only expanded the global database of dragonfly genetics but also provided crucial insights into their evolutionary history.
The team focused on dragonflies from the Libellulidae family, known for their vibrant colours and frequent presence around lakes and ponds. Hardeep Singh and his team collected specimens from across North and South India, meticulously analysing their chromosomes and DNA to trace species connections.
“We examined the chromosomes for structural variations and used the mitochondrial COI gene as a genetic barcode to differentiate species,” Singh explained. “By combining chromosomal and DNA evidence, we confirmed how various dragonfly species are related and how they have evolved over time.”
The research findings, published in four reputed international journals, mark a significant addition to global knowledge. According to Prof. Walia, the study added five previously unstudied dragonfly species to the global list of 258 species examined for their chromosomes. Additionally, DNA data for 28 sequences from 21 species was submitted to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database, and a total of 112 sequences from 80 species were analysed to map evolutionary relationships.
“Dragonflies are ancient insects, existing for around 220 million years,” Prof. Walia noted. “Because of their complex life cycles—partly aquatic and partly terrestrial—they are key indicators of freshwater ecosystem health. Their evolutionary history helps us understand both ecology and biodiversity.”
The research has been praised by Vice-Chancellor Dr Jagdeep Singh, who lauded the efforts of the research team. “Such studies enhance the academic reputation of Punjabi University and showcase the world-class research being carried out here,” he said while congratulating Singh and Prof. Walia.
With this significant contribution, Punjabi University strengthens its standing in environmental and evolutionary research, while adding valuable knowledge to the scientific understanding of these fascinating and ecologically important insects.
