Abstract
In this paper the trends of dragonfly expansions during the last decades in Germany and Europe are summarized. It is shown, that there is a general expansion of many species to the north: Mediterranean species expanded to Central and Northern Europe, whereas some African species expanded to Southern Europe, some are even new to the continent. In general this means an increase of biodiversity, but looking at the ecological effects, in the medium term a decrease can be expected for mooreland and alpine species. Dragonflies can be regarded as a good indicator group for climatic change. Already now in some areas or regions negative effects on waters bodies and their dragonfly communities can be observed and more will occur if e.g. temperature rises or precipitation decreases. The consequences for nature conservation strategies – such as the NATURA 2000 network – are outlined and the general need for monitoring programmes is emphasised.
Highlights
Introduction and some definitionsSince the 1990ies the discussions on the effects of climate change became increasingly intensive, in ecology as well as in nature conservation (e.g. Gates 1993)
An overview is given on the reactions of dragonflies following those climatic and habitat changes which have so far been observed
To maintain a high biodiversity is one of the goals of nature conservation in general, and the present situation should be regarded as positive and desired, if we look at the fact that many southern species were on the last red list while in the updated version many of them could be taken off (Ott and Piper 1998; Ott et al in prep.)
Summary
Introduction and some definitionsSince the 1990ies the discussions on the effects of climate change became increasingly intensive, in ecology as well as in nature conservation (e.g. Gates 1993). As shown by the examples in Bavaria, the Palatinate or the SLL+region, in particular species of mooreland biotopes, which are more sensitive or stenoecious, seem to suffer from the present climatic situations (increased temperatures, falling water tables, drying out of waters, invasion of other species, e.g. with aggressive larvae).
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