Abstract Lepidopteran moths constitute an ecologically important insect group and are widely used as indicators of habitat quality and environmental change. This study documents the taxonomic composition and diversity of moths in the Chalisgaon region of Maharashtra, India, covering agricultural landscapes and adjoining forested areas. Field surveys conducted between July and December 2024 recorded 44 lepidopteran species belonging to 10 families and seven superfamilies, indicating a considerable taxonomic richness. Species diversity was assessed using standard biodiversity indices, namely the Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson’s dominance and diversity indices, and Pielou’s evenness index, based on species presence. The overall Shannon–Wiener diversity value (H′ = 3.784) indicates high species diversity, whereas Simpson’s dominance index (D = 0.000) and Simpson’s diversity index (1 − D = 1.000) reflect a highly balanced community structure. Pielou’s evenness index (J′ = 1.000) suggests a uniform distribution of species across the assemblage. At the superfamily level, Noctuoidea was the most species-rich group, followed by Pyraloidea and Geometroidea, with Erebidae emerging as the most diverse family. The observed diversity patterns were closely associated with vegetation heterogeneity, seasonal resource availability, and mixed land-use practices. The present study provides baseline data for future biodiversity monitoring and conservation planning in the agro-forest landscapes of northern Maharashtra.
M. et al. (Sat,) studied this question.