First records of Rhicnoda natatrix and Rhicnoda rugosa (Blattodea: Blaberidae) from Nepal and India (Maharashtra) with notes on habitat quality

Abstract: Two species of cockroaches were collected from aquatic habitats of undisturbed natural forest streams in Nepal and India (Maharashtra): Rhicnoda natatrix and Rhicnoda rugosa. Nymphs and adults are depicted and field observations of microhabitat and behavior described. Taxa lists of accompanying macroinvertebrate fauna are given, and water quality class is calculated using three biotic scoring systems.  R. natatrix is a true aquatic species with amphibious lifestyle in the eulittoral of springs (Crenon) and streams (Rhithron) of excellent and good water quality classes I and II. R. rugosa is a predominantly terrestrial species that also colonizes the banks of water bodies and appears in between aquatic fauna.  These species cannot be classified using the traditional habitat system.

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Post-flood status of the Endangered Ganges River Dolphin (Cetartiodactyla: Platanistidae) in the Koshi River, Nepal

Abstract: The breach of the eastern embankment of the Koshi Barrage at Paschim Kusaha Village of Sunsari District on 18 August 2008, created havoc for wildlife and their habitats, as well as people’s livelihood and welfare.  The Koshi River flowed through the breach for five months.  Following the breach, a population assessment survey of the Endangered Ganges River Dolphin Platanista gangetica gangetica was made between March and November 2009 in the Koshi River main channel starting from Chatara to 2km south of Koshi Barrage to ascertain their status.  A direct count survey was conducted by two teams of researchers simultaneously searching for animals by boat from Chatara to the Koshi Barrage including the Triyuga River and on foot along the river banks downstream of Koshi Barrage and along the Mariya River.  Standard protocols were followed to record the number of sighted dolphins.  A total of 11 dolphins were recorded in the entire 49-km river stretch with an encounter rate of 0.23 dolphins per km.  The current result showed an encouraging population of dolphins in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and its buffer zone but the threats for conservation still remain challenging.  Close monitoring of dolphins and their habitats involving local communities are required for long term conservation of the river dolphins in Nepal.

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