Diversity and seasonal distribution of insects in the post graduate campus of Vidyasagar College, Kolkata, West Bengal
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Seasonal patterns in insect abundance, diversity, and functional groups were monitored over one year. During the study, 622 individual insects were documented, including 258 pest species, 167 predator species, and 197 beneficial insects. The highest insect abundance occurred during the pre-monsoon season, with the greatest number of individuals recorded in May (104), followed by April (98) and March (85). In contrast, the lowest abundance was observed in December, when only 8 individuals were recorded. Diversity indices reached their maximum values between March and May, corresponding to higher temperatures ranging from 39 °C to 40 °C. Statistical analysis indicated a strong positive association between temperature and insect abundance. Although humidity remained high (81%-83%) during the monsoon months (June-September), insect abundance decreased considerably, suggesting that rainfall negatively influenced insect populations. The findings from the study conducted at Vidyasagar College Campus, West Bengal, India, indicate that temperature is the dominant environmental factor influencing insect abundance and diversity, whereas humidity and rainfall have comparatively secondary effects. Overall, the pre-monsoon season provided the most favourable environmental conditions for insect activity.
Authors: Sagata Mondal, Afrin Sultana, Ritam Manna
Institution: Vidyasagar College
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204803055