Spatial diversity of Lepidoptera and Odonata species of Village Verna

Abstract

Goa is an extension of the Western Ghat biodiversity hotspot, a tropical, bio-diverse region in India. However, basic literature on insect species in Goa on their abundance, distribution and ecology is still lacking. Documenting biodiversity in Goa is important to provide valuable biological information in order to set up the biodiversity conservation and protection strategies to combat rapid regional habitat loss and climate change. This study provides information on the biodiversity of Lepidoptera and Odonata species in one of the small village areas of Verna in South Goa. Verna, with its undulating terrain, is rich in bio-resources but is facing habitat loss due to land use changes in recent years. A total of 181 Lepidoptera species, including 142 butterfly species from 5 families and 39 species of moth from 11 families, as well as 33 species of Odonata, including 20 species of dragonflies from 3 families and 13 species of damselflies from 4 families, were observed in this village. The study also includes the first finding of Protosticta gravelyi in this village. This study data of Lepidoptera and Odonata species collected through photo documentation contribute to the insect population for biodiversity monitoring in Goa.