Diversity of Odonata (Insecta) in protected areas of Gujarat, India

Abstract

The species of Odonata are highly predacious on invertebrates, especially the immature stages, which are generalist predators. The Odonate diversity of protected areas of Gujarat state, India was studied from August, 2014 to July, 2017. Fifteen protected areas of Gujarat were surveyed. A total of 60 species (41 species of Anisoptera and 19 species of Zygoptera) belonging to 40 genera under 8 families and two suborders were recorded. Maximum species (54) were recorded from Purna Wildlife Sanctuary of Dang district followed by Vansda National Park (44 species) of Navsari district. Amongst the protected wetlands, maximum species (47) were recorded from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.