Eco-faunistic and zoogeographic analysis of dragonflies (Odonata) of the steppe zone of the northern macroslope of the Central Caucasus

Dragonfly, a group of insects occupying the ecological niche of flying predators. Due to the alternation of terrestrial and aquatic phases of ontogenesis, in large biomass, they play an essential role in the cycle of matter in ecosystems. These insects, which are of ancient origin, are also interesting because they have a worldwide distribution. They are characterized by biological progress and high morphological and physiological specialization. Representatives of the squadron are carriers of a unique gene pool, which indicates the need to preserve it. The relevance of their study is also associated with the insufficiency of the study of the imago and nymphs of regional odonatofaun, in particular, the latitudinal zones and vertical zones of the Northern macro-slope of the Central Caucasus. The aim of the work is to study taxonomical diversity, ecological and geographical features and adaptive strategies of dragonflies in the steppe zone of the Northern macro - slope of the Central Caucasus. Material and methods. The basis of the work was the results of original data obtained during the expedition research conducted in the steppe zone of the mentioned territory in 2011-2017. Research result. In the course of the study it is established that on the territory of the steppe zone in odontogeny includes 24 species. Necessary data for each species are given in view-specific essays, which contain taxonomic notes, and distribution in the Boreal faunal kingdom (BFK) and binomio. Summary. The composition of the dragonfly fauna of the steppe zone of the Northern macroscope, which includes 24 species. The community of larvae of the territory is represented by sub-orders Zygoptera-10 species, Anizoptera - 13, Caloptera-one.