Diversity, distribution, and development of the Odonata of the Southern High Plains of Texas
Zusammenfassung
The diversity, distribution, and developmental patterns of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies; Insecta: Odonata) were examined in the playa system of the Southern High Plains of Texas from 2003-2008. Comparisons were made in these factors between playas surrounded by the two dominant forms of land use (cropland, grassland). Controlled field and lab experiments were performed to examine the causal relationship between environmental variables and growth, development, and survival of larvae of a focal species. Land-use type did have an influence on certain variables, but not consistently or on all variables. Over one hundred new county records were discovered, indicating how little is known about this system. In addition, the dragonfly holdings at the Museum of Texas Tech University were sorted, identified, and compiled, revealing numerous other new county records.