Philippine damselflies (odonata: zygoptera) and their use in establishing biogeographic patterns and as indicators of habitat type

Professorial Chair Lecture

Philippine National Bank Professiorial Lecture

Place

Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, UPLB

Date

3-2004

Abstract

The status of species richness (205) and endemism (86.8%) of Philippine damselflies is updated and discussed. The distribution of endemic damselflies was assessed in relation to the six biogeographic regions of the Philippines. Damselflies of Greater Luzon were extensively surveyed, with an inventory of species collected at all the sites visited presented, as well as, a taxonomic list of Luzon damselflies, and notes on their habitats, collection records, ecological status, and distribution range.

The distribution of endemic damselflies strongly supported the biogeographic regions, except for Mindoro which appeared more connected with Greater Luzon. Next to Luzon, Greater Mindanao had the second richest fauna of damselflies, with East Visayas and Mindanao subregions having their own endemics. Greater Palawan had the third richest fauna. Field studies of the Greater Luzon damselflies also showed northern and southern distribution patterns of some endemic species, as well as site-specific and island-specific patterns of other endemics.

Damselflies as indicators of habitat type are discussed, mainly based on Luzon species. The threat status of Philippine damselflies is also discussed with no strong conclusions but best expert opinion based on field observations. The conservation status of endemic damselflies is briefly discussed with the conclusion that no deliberate efforts to conserve them. Research initiatives are presented for consideration by interested persons.

Recommendations for conserving damselflies are presented, namely, continued inventory of endemic species in all regions, designing techniques for measuring habitat size and quality, populations estimates for assessing threat status of endemics, inclusion of damselflies in conservation efforts of DENR in protected areas, community awareness of endemic species in non-protected areas, awareness campaigns for conserving endemic damselflies, and accreditation system for local biodiversity scientists by DENR to facilitate the generation of baseline information on Philippine biodiversity, particularly of insects.

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

College

College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS)

Language

English

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