Partner: "Đerdap" National Park

Period: 2026.

Project leader: Dr. Dajana Todorović, Department of Insect Physiology and Biochemistry, IBISS

Team members from IBISS:
Dr. Stefan Anđus, Department of Hydroecology and Water Protection, IBISS

External advisors:
MSc Miloš Jović, Natural History Museum, Belgrade

Abstract

Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) are among the few insect groups that serve as highly practical subjects for assessing qualitative and quantitative environmental changes. This practicality is based on several factors: the order Odonata in Europe is characterized by a relatively modest diversity of 146 species, a clearly defined taxonomy, and well-studied biology. In addition, these insects inhabit entirely different environments across their developmental stages, with larvae being aquatic and adults predominantly aerial. Odonata are distinct predators in both life stages; therefore, their presence or absence is relatively easy to detect, serving as a clear indicator of habitat structure preservation and invertebrate community health. Consequently, dragonflies and damselflies are included in national and international documents that support the development and implementation of environmental legislation. In 2026, initial research on the diversity of Odonata fauna in Djerdap National Park will be carried out, representing a significant step in assessing environmental vulnerability in this area.