Quality assessment of habitats using phytophagous hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae)

Biodiversity has strongly declined throughout the world mainly due to human activities. Thus, standardized indicators are needed more than ever before to effec?tively monitor anthropogenic disturbance and its impact on ecosystems. In this study, hov?erfly species of two largest phytophagous genera (Cheilosia and Merodon) were chosen as bioindicators to assess the quality of 15 sites located in Serbia; in or around mountains Fruska Gora, Kopaonik, Stara Planina, Dubasnica and Pcinja region. Sufficiently close associations with particular habitats (each having its own characteristic assemblage) make phytophagous hoverflies perfect candidates for such a role. Syrph the Net database was used as a useful tool for assessing quality of habitats and detecting differences between them.