ARCHIVES
VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Diversity and distribution of beetles (Coleoptera) in Makani Town, Dharashiv District, Maharashtra, India
Authors
Dr. Rahul Ramesh Jadhav
Abstract
The present study deals with the diversity of
beetles (Order: Coleoptera) from Makani Town, Dharashiv District,
Maharashtra, India. Beetles represent the largest order of insects and play an
important role in ecosystem functioning as predators, herbivores, decomposers,
and bioindicators. The survey was conducted from January to December 2025
covering different habitats such as agricultural fields, gardens, roadside
vegetation, and semi-natural areas. Beetles were collected using hand nets and
simple mechanical traps, then dried, preserved, and identified with the help of
standard taxonomic literature. A total of nine species belonging to different
families were recorded during the study period. The sub-order Polyphaga was
found to be dominant, while Adephaga was represented mainly by ground
beetles and six-spot beetles. Most species were arboreal, except dung roller
beetles which were associated with cattle dung. In agricultural fields,
ladybird beetles, green leaf beetles, and metallic green beetles were commonly
observed, many of which are phytophagous, while some act as natural enemies of
crop pests. Chilocorus beetles were the smallest species recorded. The presence
of predatory beetles indicates their important role as natural biological
control agents. The study highlights that Makani region supports considerable
beetle diversity, but increasing use of chemicals and fertilizers may threaten
their natural habitats. Hence, conservation of local habitats is essential for
sustaining beetle diversity and ecological balance.
Download
Pages:118-120
How to cite this article:
Dr. Rahul Ramesh Jadhav "Diversity and distribution of beetles (<i>Coleoptera)</i> in Makani Town, Dharashiv District, Maharashtra, India". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 118-120
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.