Seasonal Variation of Odonate Diversity in Abheda Mahal, Kota, Rajasthan, India

Odonates are fascinating insects and important indicators of water quality and ecological health. They are key organisms of terrestrial and aquatic food webs in form of predators and preys. A study of seasonal variation and diversity of Odonates was conducted at Abheda Mahal of Kota Rajasthan, India in 2018 -2019. Abheda Mahal is a tourist spot on the outskirts of Kota city with a large pond adjacent to the palace. The site has lush gardens and vegetation. Adult specimens were collected and counted by belt transect method using aerial nets. Specimens were spread, pinned and stored in insect boxes. Identification was done by Zoological Survey of India, Jodhpur, India. The study revealed a total number of 8 species of Odonates belonging to 2 families, out of which 5 species were dragonflies of family Libellulidae and 3 species were damselflies of family Coenagrionidae. Crocothemis servilia was most abundant and Acisoma panorpoides was least abundant. Abundance of Odonates was highest in monsoon and post monsoon but declined to the least in summer season. The Higher Abundance can be attributed to high rainfall and humidity (83%-94%) with temperature range of 24.50C to 29.50C, favourable vegetation, perching sites and breeding conditions. The present study provides a baseline data of the site for further taxonomy base research and also for conservational activities. It will also increase interest in research of Odonate diversity.