Pericnemis melansoni sp. nov., a new damselfly (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) from Compostela Valley Province, Mindanao Island, Philippines

Abstract

Villanueva (2012) reviewed the Philippine members of the genus Amphicnemis. All species were transferred to three newly established genera, or moved into the genus Pericnemis. In the present sense, five named species are currently recognized as members of the genus Pericnemis in the Philippine archipelago. The island of Mindanao has one known species of Pericnemis, Pericnemis lestoides (Brauer, 1868). In addition, nearly a dozen species are still to be described from the island. During a short biodiversity survey in Cabalian Creek, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province conducted by the second and third authors, specimens of Pericnemis were collected. Voucher specimens were given to the first author who confirmed they represented a species new to science. Due to the urgency of establishing the known habitat of the present species as a protected area, it is described here in advance of a complete treatment of the Philippine Pericnemis