A Study on Diversity and Habitat Characterisation of Odonata at Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, India

A study was carried out in Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary to assess habitat characteristics preferred by Odonates (Dragonflies and Damselflies) in Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary (Ramsar Site), Gujarat. The entire study area was stratified into 6 different habitat type. Transects Survey was carried out covering all habitats. Each transect was repeatedly surveyed covering all seasons. A total of 30 species of dragonflies and damselflies were encountered belonging to 5 families namely Libellulidae, Gomphidae, Aeshnidae, Coenagrionidae, and Lestidae during the entire study. The most habitat type utilized by Odonates, out of total individual encountered during survey are Habitat-Type-4 and Habitat-Type-2 and it contributes to around 64.3 % of Odonate within study area. However, most preferred habitat by Anisoptera (Dragonflies) is Habitat-Type-4. Similarly, most preferred habitat by Zygoptera (Damselflies) is Habitat-Type6 and Habitat-Type-2. Relative frequency (%) and relative abundance (%) of each Odonate species (Dragonflies and Damselflies) were calculated based on data collection. Relative frequency (%) of Trithemis pallidinervis was recorded highest in most of the habitats and Relative abundance (%) of Trithemis pallidinervis highest in Habitat-Type-3 compared other species within habitat irrespective of seasonality. However, Pantala flavescens were recorded maximum in the majority of habitat due to its monsoon season migratory behaviour. KeywordsDamselfly, Diversity, Dragonfly, Habitat, Habitat Characterisation, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Odonata