Vietnamese Odonata: bridging global biodiversity, ecological, and conservation gaps in a changing world.

Abstract

Vietnam is a global hotspot, hosting 493 Odonata species, with ~95% evaluated by the IUCN. Odonata species play vital ecological roles in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems; yet, they face escalating threats from climate change, habitat loss, and pollution. Adult taxonomy has dominated research; yet, critical eco-evolutionary, ecotoxicological, and conservation studies are lacking. This synthesis of 200 years of Vietnamese Odonata research bridges knowledge gaps, offering insights into tropical ecosystem vulnerability in a changing world. We propose an integrative framework scalable to all aquatic invertebrates and understudied tropical regions to advance research and conservation: (1) enhance larval and adult taxonomy and phylogeny using morphology, DNA barcoding (COI gene), and whole genome sequencing for ecologically important, critically endangered or rare species; (2) implement monitoring programmes with eDNA metabarcoding, remote sensing, automated imaging, and citizen science to track distributions, phenology, and traits; (3) conduct eco-evolutionary and ecotoxicological studies with multi-omics to elucidate mechanisms underlying ecophysiology and evolutionary responses; and (4) apply machine learning to project distributions and responses to environmental changes. This framework aligns with global biodiversity and sustainability policy agendas, including the Convention on Biological Diversity and SDGs 14: Life Below Water, and 15: Life on Land, and offers actionable solutions for protecting vulnerable ecosystems.