International Journal of Entomology Research

Authors
Bharatsinh Gohil, Karan Thakkar, Gaurang Gondaliya

Abstract
A lack of baseline data on Moths of Saurashtra region of Gujarat was found as a result of literature review. Very few records of Moths are published from the area. To fill in this gap, a study was carried in Bhavnagar City, Gujarat, India to record the Moth fauna of the area. Selected sites (subject to accessibility and convenience) were surveyed regularly from July-2019 to July-2021. A preliminary checklist of 232 species of Moths was compiled as a result of this study. Erebidae was found to be the most species rich family with 62 species; followed by crambidae with 44 species. 11 Families showed least diversity with single species representative. First record of family sessidae (Mellitia sp.) was obtained during this study. A clear seasonal fluctuation was seen in number of species seen during a month. Maximum species were recorded in the month of August (75), which mark the peak of monsoon. Whereas least number of species were recorded in the month of may (7), which marks the peak of summer. The survey improves our understanding of the bio-diversity of Moths in semi-arid region of Gujarat, and can will helpful in conducting further ecological research and conservation practices.