Bhiva Parab
Panaji
A study has recorded 19 species of hoverflies in Goa’s protected areas, with 17 species and 12 genera being newly reported for the state.
Hoverflies, also known as flower flies, play a crucial ecological role as key pollinators of both, wild and cultivated flora.
The survey, conducted between March 2023 and March 2024, documented 19 species across 14 genera, five tribes and two subfamilies. The fieldwork covered six protected areas: Bhagwan Mahavir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Chorao Island (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary), Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary.
According to a project report submitted to the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Research and Utilisation Division by Dr Maruthadurai R, senior scientist (agricultural entomology) at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), hoverflies serve as indicators of ecosystem health. Their larval stages exhibit diverse feeding habits, and their presence is used globally to assess the health of forest ecosystems, particularly those with dense tree canopies.
The study highlights a significant gap in hoverfly research in Goa. While the Indian sub-region has 493 valid species across 107 genera, Goa was previously documented to have only two species in two genera. In contrast, 131 species across 49 genera have been recorded in southern India.
Unlike other states where British colonial-era taxonomists conducted foundational taxonomy work, Goa has lacked comprehensive research in this area.
The report said that Goa’s undisturbed natural vegetation, particularly in the Western Ghats, could be home to many undiscovered hoverfly species.
Identifying hoverfly diversity in Goa’s protected areas can help pinpoint locations requiring conservation efforts and determine rare species that may need protection.
During field surveys, specific habitats with high hoverfly diversity and ecological significance were identified. These locations were assessed based on species rarity, overall species count and habitat specificity. A checklist, taxonomic key, descriptive guide and photographic field guide for hoverflies in Goa’s protected areas have also been prepared as part of the study.
