Restricted distribution and constrained reproduction in the endemic high‐ Andean damselfly Ischnura cruzi

Ischnura cruzi is an endemic damselfly of the Colombian Andes associated with high‐elevation wetlands, for which information on adult population dynamics at the local scale has been lacking. Here, we present the first integrated assessment of its population status, colour polymorphism and reproductive biology to provide baseline information relevant for conservation.

Using mark–recapture data, we assessed population status through relative abundance, survival and adult life expectancy. In addition, we described female colour polymorphism and ontogenetic colour changes in both sexes and assessed mating patterns based on sex ratios, copulation frequency and behavioural observations in the field.

Ischnura cruzi exhibited an extremely restricted distribution within the surveyed localities (2/22–9% of surveyed sites) and co‐occurred with another odonate species classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List criteria (IUCN) Red List. The species showed female colour dimorphism (androchrome and aurantiaca morphs), pronounced ontogenetic colour changes in both sexes, and behavioural patterns consistent with apparent monandry.

The species' narrow distribution, distinctive reproductive traits and reliance on high‐Andean wetlands suggests high sensitivity to habitat loss and potential vulnerability consistent with traits commonly associated with IUCN Red list criteria for threatened categories.

Our results provide a biological and ecological baseline for I. cruzi and highlight the importance of integrating demographic and life‐history information into conservation assessments of endemic freshwater insects in montane ecosystems.