Checklist of Faunal Diversity of Kesnand-Wadebolhai, Pune, M/S, India

Biodiversity is important in the preservation of ecological balance, and faunal diversity in any area is a reflection of its ecological health. Kesnand-Wadebolhai, being in Pune District, Maharashtra, supports varied habitats like cropland, grassland, and human habitation and hence is an ecologically important place. This research intends to record the faunal diversity of this area, emphasizing species richness and ecological importance. Field surveys involved direct observation, pitfall trap, and opportunistic sampling methods. Species were identified using standard taxonomic keys and literature at hand. There were 47 species from several taxonomic groups, such as Insecta, Arachnida, Chilopoda, Malacostraca, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves, and Mammalia. The checklist gives clues to the diversity and distribution of the species that can be included in baseline ecological studies in the future. The findings indicate a rich collection of insects, arachnids, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals with key species like Apis dorsata (Giant Honey Bee), Mesobuthus tamulus tamulus (Indian Red Scorpion), Naja naja (Cobra), and Corvus splendens (House Crow). The diversity of these species shows the presence of a well-balanced ecosystem, but growing urbanization is a likely threat to biodiversity. The research highlights the need for conservation measures to safeguard the faunal richness of Kesnand-Wadebolhai. Knowledge of species distribution and their ecological functions can help in formulating biodiversity conservation and sustainable land-use planning strategies. Additional studies and ongoing monitoring are suggested to evaluate long-term environmental alterations and their effects on the fauna of the region.