Paragomphus alami sp. nov. (Odonata, Gomphidae): a new dragonfly species described from the White Nile River, Sudan

Sudan's unique biogeographic position at the Afrotropical-Palearctic interface, coupled with the ecological gradient of the Nile River, fosters a diverse odonate fauna. Despite this, the genus <i>Paragomphus</i> Cowley, 1934 remains understudied in the region. This study describes <i>Paragomphus alami</i> <b>sp. nov.</b>, a new species of <i>Paragomphus</i> from the White Nile floodplain in Sudan, based on integrated morphological and molecular evidence. Field surveys conducted between 2017 and 2022 documented adult populations across the Sudanese floodplains. Specimens were morphologically analysed using microscopy compared to congeners <i>P. lacustris</i> Karsch, 1890 and <i>P. elpidius</i> Ris, 1921. DNA barcoding (COI gene) was performed on two specimens, with maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction using 28 sequences of <i>Paragomphus</i> and related species in addition to an outgroup. Mean interspecific genetic distance was computed manually. Morphological comparisons with congeners revealed unique diagnostic traits in <i>P. alami</i> <b>sp. nov.</b>, including short, thick cerci ending with a black tooth, and an epiproct that is noticeably shorter than those of <i>P. lacustris</i> and <i>P. elpidius</i>. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that <i>P. alami</i> forms a well-supported monophyletic clade (bootstrap value = 100%), which is corroborated by morphological evidence, and no observed intraspecific variation, which supports the recognition of this species as distinct; this was further supported by the mean interspecific distance of 12.34%. This discovery highlights Sudan's role as a biogeographic crossroads and the need for further research of Odonata in the region. Habitat sensitivity highlights conservation urgency. The species seasonal emergence, habitat specificity, and sensitivity to deforestation underscore its conservation importance.