Key to the larval stages of common Odonata of Hindu Kush Himalaya, with short notes on habitats and ecology

Authors

  • H. Nesemann
  • R.D.T. Shah
  • D.N. Shah

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11609/JoTT.o2759.2045-60

Abstract

The order Odonata is one of the most widely studied groups among insects from the oriental region. They colonize in both stagnant and running water bodies of wide water quality. Hitherto, the existing literature on the Odonata contained numerous publications with coloured figures of adults, helpful for identification. Identification key with figures on larval stages, using their coloration as distinguishing characters are largely missing. The current work attempts to provide an identification key to aquatic larvae of the most common families of Zygoptera, Anisoptera and Anisozygoptera with colour illustrations. The specimens were collected from Nepal and India (northern part). Each family is represented by several examples to demonstrate the range of morphological variability. This key helps determination of aquatic larvae Odonata up to family level without enormous efforts in field and laboratory.

Author Biographies

H. Nesemann

Hasko Nesemann is an aquatic ecologist. He is specialized in aquatic macroinvertebrates diversity with a keen interest in freshwater ecology, biogeography, conservation, and ecological water quality monitoring.

R.D.T. Shah

Ram Devi Tachamo Shah is an aquatic ecologist. He is specialized in aquatic macroinvertebrates diversity with a keen interest in freshwater ecology, biogeography, conservation, and ecological water quality monitoring.

D.N. Shah

Deep Narayan Shah is an aquatic ecologist. He is specialized in aquatic macroinvertebrates diversity with a keen interest in freshwater ecology, biogeography, conservation, and ecological water quality monitoring.

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Published

26-09-2011

Issue

Vol 3, No 9 (2011)

Section

Communications

License

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