A comprehensive review on regional diversity of aquatic insects in India

Abstract

Aquatic insects are integral to freshwater ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling, ecosystem health, and serving as bioindicators of water quality. The study investigates the diversity richness and distribution of aquatic entomofauna across various states in India, encompassing lentic and lotic ecosystems. Thirteen key taxonomic orders were documented, with Hemiptera emerging as the most prominent group, particularly the Gerridae and Belostomatidae families. States such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Assam demonstrated significant species richness, while unique ecological roles as well as predatory potential of aquatic larvae were also highlighted.