A PhD student at The University of the South Pacific (USP), Bindiya Rashni, has made remarkable strides in the field of Pacific freshwater ecology, particularly through her co-authorship in the documentation of eight new endemic species of damselflies and the establishment of a fresh endemic genus for Fiji named Nikoulabasis. Formally recognized in 2023, this new genus is native to the Fijian archipelago and has seen the description of six new species between 2023 and 2025, which are dispersed across several islands, including Kadavu, Moala, Koro, Vanua Levu, and Viti Levu.
Rashni’s research is a significant part of her PhD journey and aligns her with her role as a national expert for the IUCN Species Survival Commission Dragonfly Specialist Group. Initially, Fiji’s genus Nesobasis included 16 species, placing it as the second most diverse island endemic damselfly genus globally, falling short only to Hawai‘i’s Megalagrion. However, her extensive research has expanded Nesobasis to 30 species, with four being newly described by her, making it the most diverse island endemic damselfly genus across any oceanic island system.
Throughout her academic career, Rashni has been supported by various international collaborations, including partnerships with Stanford University and the Universidade de Vigo, alongside funding from Conservation International Fiji. In 2025, she was honored with the Peter Gänßler Award, which provides essential financial assistance and mentorship for her research endeavors.
Rashni, who hails from Taveuni, is recognized as the first female freshwater scientist in the Pacific. She believes in the vital role of wetland stewardship, advocating for the importance of education in environmental conservation. “Wetland stewardship is a shared responsibility across communities, and it begins with our children learning from the land, the water, and the wisdom of their elders,” she stated.
As World Wetlands Day 2026 approaches, and with the theme focusing on Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge, Rashni underlined the importance of wetlands in supporting Pacific island communities. “Wetlands are the lifeblood of our islands—they filter our water, protect us from floods, and quietly sustain biodiversity that exists nowhere else on Earth,” she expressed. She emphasized that the preservation of these ecosystems is not merely an option but a necessity, especially as climate change increases pressures on traditional livelihoods and environmental health.
Looking forward, Rashni hopes that her efforts will lay the groundwork for establishing a Pacific Rivers Institute, which would focus on freshwater research, education, and community engagement throughout the region. She invites students who wish to engage in pioneering research or contribute to national and regional initiatives to consider enrolling for Semester 1, 2026 at USP, where comprehensive programs in marine science and ecology are offered. Further details on program requirements and applications can be found on the USP website.
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