Diversity and Population Dynamics of Beneficial Insects in Rabi Cropping Systems of Dhod Tehsil, Sikar, Rajasthan

Abstract

The present study investigates the diversity, abundance, and functional roles of beneficial insects associated with major Rabi crops in Dhod tehsil of Sikar district, Rajasthan, during two consecutive seasons (2021–2023). Insect sampling was conducted across six sites representing different ecological conditions, using pitfall traps, sweep nets, and sticky traps. A total of 46 species belonging to eight orders and 25 families were recorded. Hymenoptera emerged as the most dominant order, followed by Coleoptera, Diptera, and Lepidoptera. Functional categorization revealed 22 predator species, 22 pollinators, 7 parasitoids, and 6 soil builders. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index and Simpson’s index indicated high community stability and species evenness. Among the sites, Harsh (Site 5) exhibited maximum species richness. The predominance of pollinators and predators underscores their critical ecological roles in enhancing pollination efficiency, natural pest control, and soil health in semi-arid agro ecosystems. The study highlights the need for conserving beneficial insect diversity through sustainable agricultural practices, reduced pesticide use, and maintenance of flowering field margins to strengthen ecosystem services and agro ecological resilience in Rajasthan’s Rabi cropping systems.