Studies on the Diversity and Species Composition of Odonata (Arthropoda: Insecta) from Chandgad Taluk of Kolhapur District, Maharashtra, India

In present study, a total of 66 odonate species belonging to 41 genera representing 10 families were recorded from Chandgad taluka of Kolhapur district in Northern Western Ghats. Dragonflies (Anisoptera) with 38 species (58%) were dominating the study area followed by 28 species (42%) of Damselflies (Zygoptera). Among the genera, Orthertum were in maximum number (6) of species followed by Pseudagrin were of 5 species. Libellulidae family members are recorded in the highest number (30) followed by Coenagrionidae (15). Among the study sites highest numbers of odonates were recorded from slow running stream Kitwade with 33 species and weedy pond Tawarewadi with 32 species. The fast-running stream Tilari represents the least number (3) of species. The slow running stream and weedy pond habitat support the odonate diversity compared to fast running stream, semi forest and lake side habitat.