Env Exp Biol (2011) 9: 43–52

The distribution of southern dragonfly (Odonata) species in Latvia and adjacent territories

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to summarize published and unpublished information on changes of the dragonfly fauna in Latvia and adjacent territories during the last 20 years and to provide a prognosis of future changes. All published and unpublished data were summarized for the selected species. Unsystematic inspection of the potential habitats was carried out in the field, mostly in southern and central parts of the country. The identification of specimens in collections was checked. In total 19 species were identified whose borders of distribution areas or separate localities are relatively close to the territory of Latvia or which are known as species that rapidly disperse in the northern direction. Seven of these species are mentioned in the literature as probable for Latvia. Five of the species that are included in the lists were recorded for the first time in Latvia during the last 20 years.