No abstract

In a recent survey at the Taleigao plateau in Goa, a total of 98 species of butterflies belonging to 72 genera under five families were recorded.  This amounts to around 39% of the total reported butterfly fauna of the state. Nymphalidae with 34 species was the most dominant family followed by Lycaenidae (25 spp.), Hesperiidae (16 spp.), Pieridae (13 spp.), and Papilionidae (11 spp.).  Findings of the present study underline the importance of Taleigao plateau as a preferred habitat for butterflies.

Nematological research in India is primarily focussed on major crops and animal parasitic groups, while ignoring free living groups in forest ecosystems.  In the present study, soil nemafauna of Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa, India was assessed.  A total of 18 genera, 14 families, and five orders were recorded.  Among four orders, Dorylaimida was the most dominant one, which consists of 12 genera and nine families.  Among the 18 genera Sicaguttur, Qudsinema, Microdorylaimus, Longidorella, Paralongidorus, Xiphidorinae, Fuscheila and Chrysonema are reported for the first time from the state.  More such intensive survey will add more numbers of nematode species.