Abstract
The Ouachita National Forest (ONF) was established in 1907 and encompasses 1.8 million acres (728,450 ha) in Arkansas and Oklahoma, almost entirely within the Ouachita Mountains Natural Division. The adult dragonfly species richness, seasonal and spatial distribution, and relative abundance were surveyed during 2002. Fifty-four collections were made at 43 sites during 10-19 May (20 collections), 10-22 July (19 collections) and 9-17 September (15 collections). Literature records were searched, as well as records from pertinent museums and individuals. Eighty-three species are reported here for the ONF, 77 of which were collected during 2002. Nehallenia integricollis newly reported for Arkansas, as are several species for the six Arkansas and two Oklahoma counties that encompass the ONF. The species richness results from a diversity of aquatic habitats, particularly within the Caddo Ranger District. Plastic species (e.g. Plathemis lydia) typically are widely distributed and have long flight seasons. More specialized species (e.g. Ophiogomphus westfalli) often are quite restricted in both distribution and flight season. Maintenance of good water quality in all aquatic habitat types will ensure species richness for dragonflies and the invertebrates upon which they feed.
Recommended Citation
Harp, George L. and Harp, Phoebe A.
(2003)
"Dragonflies (Odonata) of the Ouachita National Forest,"
Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science: Vol. 57, Article 10.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/jaas/vol57/iss1/10
