Designs for dragonflies : Odonata diversity in Oslo, Norway

Abstract

This study establishes that Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) breed in freshwater habitats in the Oslo urban region. It also identifies elements that could be adjusted to support greater Odonata diversity in the municipality. This was grounded in an awareness of the species conservation potential of cities, the "flagship" status of dragonflies as a species group, and a desire to enhance the quality of wildlife experiences of urban dwellers. It includes both pond habitat variables and human behaviour.

An index tool was developed to evaluate the habitat variables of the surveyed ponds, and statistical analysis was conducted to ascertain if there was a correlation between habitat quality scores, and the presence of Odonata larvae.