22 Eyl 2025 Pazartesi
Evaluation of research on African dragonflies and damselflies (order Odonata) fauna from two decades (2000 to 2020)
Abstract : Dragonflies and damselflies (order Odonata) are widely recognized as bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health and biodiversity. This study presents a critical evaluation of research conducted on African Odonata fauna over the two-decade period from 2000 to 2020. Drawing from a comprehensive review of one hundred and thirty-two (132) peer-reviewed publications, the study categorizes the research into four thematic areas: taxonomy, distribution, ecology, and conservation. Findings reveal a strong emphasis on taxonomic and distributional studies, with a notable concentration of research efforts in countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. Conversely, significant knowledge gaps exist in ecological and conservation-related investigations, particularly in Central and parts of West Africa. These disparities highlight the urgent need for more regionally inclusive and interdisciplinary studies, along with the development of conservation strategies that reflect the ecological diversity across the continent. Strengthening local scientific capacity and encouraging citizen science are also recommended as viable pathways to advancing odonatological research and biodiversity monitoring in Africa.