| 1. |
- Nilsson, Sven, et al.
(author)
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Long-term land-use changes and extinction of specialised butterflies
- 2008
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-4598 .- 1752-458X. ; 1:4, s. 197-207
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Land-use change in 450 ha in southern Sweden between 1814 and 2004 was recorded. Butterflies and burnet moths were surveyed in 1904–1913 and 2001–2005. 2. We explore if local extinctions were related to land-use changes and species attributes. 3. Land use changed drastically over the 190-year period, and the largest relative change occurred for hay meadows with late harvest, which decreased from 28% to 0%. The area changed from grasslands and grazed forests to being dominated by timber forests. Previous open grazed mixed woodlands changed to spruce plantations with clear-cuts. 4. Of the 48 resident butterfly and burnet moths found a century ago, 44% have become extinct. The extinct Aporia cratægi, Colias palaeno, and Leptidea sinapis were abundant 100 years ago and had their highest densities in flower-rich glades in forest, a habitat which no longer exists. 5. The butterfly extinctions could be predicted from species-specific attributes as a short flight length period (P < 0.02), narrow habitat breadth (P < 0.02), small distribution area in Europe (P = 0.033) and possibly larvae food plant nitrogen class (P < 0.06). In a multiple logistic regression, the flight length period was the only significant variable because the independent variables were intercorrelated. 6. We conclude that the most important factor explaining the high extinction rate is that flower-rich habitats have disappeared from both woodlands as well as from open farmlands. The most sensitive species are specialised species with a short summer flight which have gone extinct. Only the most unspecialised species still persist in the current landscape.
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| 2. |
- Wittwer, Torben, et al.
(author)
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Does one community shape the other? Dragonflies and fish in Swedish lakes
- 2010
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - London : Wiley. - 1752-4598 .- 1752-458X. ; 3:2, s. 124-133
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Freshwater communities are often structured by predation. In permanent lentic freshwater habitats dragonfly larvae are major predators which, in return, suffer predation by fish. Antipredator traits vary between the dragonfly species, and the dragonfly communities are therefore shaped by the presence of fish. But fish communities vary, and as different fish species affect dragonflies in different ways, the species composition of the fish community may affect the composition of the dragonfly community. 2. We sampled dragonfly larvae in 24 lakes with a known fish stock in south-western Sweden, and explored the impact of fish as well as vegetation structure on dragonfly communities by means of multivariate analyses. 3. We found that the presence of four fish species affected the community structure of dragonflies. The impact strength depended mainly on the abundance of Perca fluviatilis, with which most dragonfly species were negatively correlated. Many dragonfly species were also positively correlated with the occurrence of at least one fish species, which may reflect similar habitat requirements or imply indirect positive effects of these fish species. 4. Of the 24 recorded dragonfly species, four did not occur in lakes dominated by P. fluviatilis, whereas only one species was lacking in lakes dominated by Rutilus rutilus. The dragonfly species diversity was higher in R. rutilus lakes than in P. fluviatilis lakes. 5. Our results suggest that the fish species composition is a major determinant of the dragonfly community, which in turn will influence the lower trophic levels.
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| 3. |
- Abrahamsson, Markus, et al.
(author)
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Saproxylic beetle assemblages in artificially created high-stumps of spruce (Picea abies) and birch (Betula pendula/pubescens) – does the surrounding landscape matter?
- 2009
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 2, s. 284-294
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Abstract. 1. To create high-stumps (snags) is a common conservation action during final felling in Swedish production forests. However, many wood-living beetle species are only found in certain areas with higher overall biodiversity, so called hotspots. It has been argued that it is efficient to concentrate conservation efforts to hotspots. 2. The saproxylic beetle fauna was sampled on ten clearcuts inside hotspots and ten clearcuts outside the hotspots. They were collected with window traps mounted on 2- and 4-year-old spruce and birch high-stumps. We also used environmental data (e.g. tree species composition) to confirm differences between the surroundings of two, the clearcut types. 3. High-stumps on the hotspot clearcuts did not attract more saproxylic beetle species, or red-listed species, than high-stumps outside the hotspots. The environmental data showed that the clearcuts differed in several important aspects, for instance, were there a higher proportion of broadleaved trees around the hotspot compared with the clearcuts outside the hotspots. In a Canonical Correspondence Analysis, the proportion of coniferous and broadleaved forest was an important explanatory variables. The hotspot variable did contribute significantly in explaining the beetle composition on the birch high-stumps, but not on the spruce high-stumps. 4. In general, the study suggests that concentrating high-stumps to hotspot areas will not benefit more species. However, the result indicates birch high-stumps could be prioritised in a biologically rich landscape. The hotspot effect may be more noticeable in the future as the high-stumps decay and their importance for late successional species increase
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| 4. |
- Haaland, Christine
(author)
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Sown wildflower strips for insect conservation: a review
- 2011
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 4, s. 60-80
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Sown wildflower strips are increasingly being established in European countries within agri-environmental schemes to enhance biodiversity, especially in intensively used agricultural areas. 2. The regulations vary between countries regarding the seed mixture, intensity of management and period of time over which subsidies are given. Insects in particular are intended to benefit from these schemes. 3. This review treats studies of insect diversity and abundance in sown wildflower strips. Schemes on wildflower strips in several countries in Central and Northern Europe are compared. 4. In a significant majority of studies, sown wildflower strips support higher insect abundances and diversity than cropped habitats. In general, numbers and diversity also tend to be higher than in other margin types such as sown grass margins and natural regeneration, but pollen- and nectar-rich flower mixtures may outperform them. 5. Common species are the main beneficiaries of the establishment of wildflower strips, although some studies point out the presence of rare or declining insect species. 6. Insect groups respond differently to particular characteristics of the strips. Flower abundance, seed mixture, vegetation structure, management, age and landscape have been identified as factors influencing insect abundance and diversity. 7. Future work should address under-represented comparisons, such as with pollen- and nectar-rich seed mixes, and neglected groups, in particular parasitoids. Nevertheless, sown wildflower strips can already be seen as a beneficial measure to enhance insect diversity. This is especially the case, where schemes for sown strips vary within a region to favour different species groups
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| 5. |
- Stenbacka, Fredrik, et al.
(author)
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Saproxylic parasitoid (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonoidea) communities in managed boreal forest landscapes
- 2010
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 3, s. 114-123
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 4. The general distribution pattern revealed no significant differences in species richness among stand types, but parasitoid assemblages were affected by forest successional stage. Idiobionts, dominated by Ontsira antica and Bracon obscurator, preferred clear-cuts over forested sites, while koinobionts, especially Cosmophorus regius, were more common in mature forests and reserves. We conclude that the stand types studied were complementary in assemblage composition, but that none held a complete assemblage of saproxylic parasitoids and we suggest that a range of successional stages be retained to help conserve the entire parasitoid community.
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| 6. |
- Brunet, Jörg
(author)
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Implications from large-scale spatial diversity patterns of saproxylic beetles for the conservation of European Beech forests
- 2013
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 6, s. 162-169
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- . 1.European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is the natural dominant tree species in many forests across Europe. Despite Europe's global responsibility for these forests, the correct conservation strategies are still a matter of debate. In particular, it remains controversial whether high conservation efforts should be directed towards beech forests, owing to the small number of insects that are Fagus specialists, and at what spatial scale conservation should take place. 2.To provide evidence for this discussion, we compiled saproxylic beetle data from 1115 flight-interception traps in eight countries and addressed two main questions: (i) what percentage of central European species can be expected in beech-dominated forests? and (ii) which are the important spatial scales for the conservation of biodiversity in beech-dominated forests?3.We included six spatial scales in our analysis: among traps, forest stands, forest sites, low/high elevations, oligo/eutrophic soils, and European bioregions. 4.By extrapolating species numbers, we showed that 70% of the central European saproxylic beetle species can be expected in beech-dominated forests. Multiplicative -diversity partitioning revealed the forest site level as the most important diversity scale for species richness, particularly for red-listed and rare species, followed by elevation and bioregion. 5.We conclude that beech-dominated forests form a useful umbrella for the high species diversity of central European saproxylic beetles. Conservation activities, such as protecting areas or increasing dead wood, should be undertaken in as many forest sites as possible, at different elevations, and in different bioregions. For this, the Natura 2000 net may provide the most useful template.
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| 7. |
- Flenner, Ida, 1976-, et al.
(author)
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Dragonfly community re-organisation in boreal forest lakes : rapid species turnover driven by climate change?
- 2008
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - Oxford : Blackwell Publishing. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 1:3, s. 169-179
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Climate change affects many ecosystems on earth. If not dying out or migrating, the species affected have to survive the altered conditions, including changes in community structure. It is, however, usually difficult to distinguish changes caused by a changing climate from other factors.Forestry is considered to be the major disturbance factor in Swedish forests. Here, we use forest lake data sets from 1996 and 2006 which include species abundance data for dragonfly larvae, water plant structure, forest age and forestry measures during a period of 25 years: from 1980 to 2005. Hence, we were able to discriminate between forestry effects and changes in species composition driven by recent climate change.We explored effects on regional species composition, species abundance and ecosystem functions, such as changes in niche use, utilising dragonflies (Odonata) as model organisms.Our results show that dragonflies react rapidly to climate change, showing strong responses over such a short time span as 10 years. We observed changes in both species composition and abundance; former rare species have become more frequent and now occur in lakes of a wider quality range, while former widespread species have become more selective in their choice of waters. The new communities harbour about the same number of species as before, but seen from a regional perspective, diversity is reduced.We predict that the altered species composition and abundance might raise new demands in conservation planning as well as altering the ecological functions of the aquatic systems.
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| 8. |
- Johansson, Therese, et al.
(author)
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Short-term responses of beetle assemblages to wildfire in a region with more than 100 years of fire suppression
- 2011
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 4:2, s. 142-151
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Suppression of wildfires in boreal landscapes has become widespread and has seriously affected many fire favoured species. However, little is known about the response of organism assemblages to large wildfires in regions with a long history of effective fire suppression, such as Scandinavia.2. We studied the short-term effects of a >1600 ha wildfire on beetle assemblages in northern Sweden. The first summer after fire, beetles were sampled in 12 sites using 36 large window traps, half in old pine forest stands in the burned area and half in similar, but unburned control stands. The entire beetle assemblage and eight subgroups were analysed: saproxylics, non-saproxylics, moderately fire favoured, strongly fire favoured, fungivores, predators, cambium consumers and red-listed species.3. Species composition differed markedly between burned and unburned forests in all nine groups. Furthermore, beetle abundance was higher in the burned area for the entire assemblage and for saproxylics, both groups of fire favoured species, predators and cambium consumers. Species number was higher only for non-saproxylics, strongly fire favoured species and cambium consumers.4. Our results show that wildfire has rapid and strong effects on a wide range of beetles. However, we only trapped two individuals of fire-dependent beetles, which may suggest a lack of such species in the region, possibly due to >100 years of fire suppression. At the regional scale, the studied wildfire may potentially increase the abundance of these beetles after a longer period of reproduction in the burned area.
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| 9. |
- Marini, Lorenzo, et al.
(author)
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High mobility reduces beta-diversity among orthopteran communities - implications for conservation
- 2012
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 5, s. 37-45
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 5. Measures currently included in most agri-environment schemes have only focused on the extensive management at the field scale. Our results imply that orthopteran diversity would benefit from maintaining extensively managed meadows scattered throughout the whole region, as the loss of species-rich isolated grassland patches due to abandonment or eutrophication might cause severe reductions of the regional species pool. Increasing connectivity might be also considered as a complementary measure to increase species occupancy and population persistence, particularly for sedentary species.
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| 10. |
- Ranius, Thomas
(author)
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Dispersal patterns of a saproxylic beetle, Osmoderma eremita, in Mediterranean woodlands
- 2013
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 6, s. 309-318
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dispersal patterns of a beetle inhabiting tree hollows, Osmoderma eremita (Scopoli, 1763) (Coleoptera: Cetoniidae), were studied in a cork oak (Quercus suber) woodland in central Italy, the southernmost part of its distribution range. During 2years, we used radio telemetry to monitor dispersal of 39 free-ranging individuals (16 males, 23 females). Telemetered beetles spent their lifetime not only inside hollow trees but also in other habitats, such as above or under the ground surface. Beetles were more active at the beginning of the season. Eighty-one per cent of the males and 69% of the females conducted dispersals during their lifetime. The dispersal distance over individuals' lifetime did not differ between sexes. The longest dispersal was conducted by a female that moved 1504m. Thirty-nine per cent of dispersing individuals reached distances farther than 250m. Both dispersal rate and range are higher than what has been found in Northern Europe. The population size per tree is low, most of the adults leave their natal tree, and a high predation rate (at least 28%) was observed among dispersing beetles. Therefore, to balance the local extinction risk from single trees, a high density of hollow trees is probably required. It is desirable that suitable trees are concentrated at a spatial scale of a few hundred metres.
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| 11. |
- Sarin, Camilla, et al.
(author)
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Habitat utilisation of burnet moths (Zygaena spp.) in southern Sweden: a multi-scale and multi-stage perspective
- 2010
-
In: INSECT CONSERVATION AND DIVERSITY. - : Blackwell Publishing Ltd. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 3:3, s. 180-193
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Habitat requirements and occurrence patterns of three species of burnet moths (Zygaena filipendulae, Zygaena lonicerae and Zygaena viciae) were studied at different life stages and different scales on the Baltic island of Oland, Sweden. 2. Larvae of all three species were more likely to occur in small-scale patches (i.e. 1 m2) with a greater cover of their most important host plants, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium medium/pratense, or Vicia spp., than were pupae or adults, and were also observed on significantly larger than random plants. Pupation of Z. filipendulae took place in taller vegetation than preferred by feeding larvae and adults. 3. Adults of all species preferred different nectar plants of Asteraceae and Dipsacaceae, growing in sunny conditions. 4. A large-scale analysis of occupancy patterns was made, evaluating the relationship between burnet occurrence and the area of meadows and pastures within 10 x 10 km grid cells in Sweden. All three species showed a significant positive relationship with the area of semi-natural grassland. The area required for a 50% probability of burnet occurrence was 454 ha for Z. filipendulae, 925 ha for Z. lonicerae and 2055 ha for Z. viciae. 5. Conservation work should aim at preserving and restoring open areas rich in the respective host plants and nectar sources, with light grazing or mowing late in the season. At the landscape scale, burnet moths were favoured by a high density of semi-natural grassland and management priorities should be directed to these regions.
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| 12. |
- Alves-Martins, Fernanda, et al.
(author)
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Drivers of regional and local diversity of Amazonian stream Odonata
- 2019
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley-Blackwell. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 12:3, s. 251-261
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Large Amazonian rivers may act as dispersal barriers for animals with low dispersal abilities, limiting their distribution to certain interfluves. Consequently, the distribution of these taxa would be less affected by macroclimatic gradients. Conversely, high-dispersal taxa would be less constrained by large rivers and may track suitable climates. We evaluate whether Zygoptera and Anisoptera, two Odonata suborders with different dispersal abilities, show differences in distribution patterns across Amazonian interfluves. We further assess the relative importance of macroclimatic and habitat factors in their community assembly. We used network modularity analyses to identify biogeographic species pools and spatial buffers to define metacommunity species pools. Then, we used structural equationmodels to estimate the relative importance of multi-scale factors on species richness patterns. Zygoptera communities are more similar in species composition within than between interfluves, suggesting that large Amazonian rivers indeed limit the distribution of Zygoptera species. Conversely, the distribution of Anisoptera extends across Amazonian interfluves. Seasonality has a strong positive effect on Zygoptera and Anisoptera richness across scales. In addition, habitat integrity is negatively correlated with the regional species richness and abundance of Anisoptera and positively correlated with Zygoptera local richness. The contrasting effects of habitat integrity on Anisoptera and Zygoptera suggest that the former is favored in open habitats, whereas the latter is so in forests. Despite these differences, both suborders appear to follow similar community assembly mechanisms in Amazonia, with a strong climatic control across scales and an effect of habitat filters on local communities.
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| 13. |
- Andersson, G., et al.
(author)
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Arthropod populations in a sub-arctic environment facing climate change over a half-century: variability but no general trend
- 2022
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 15:5, s. 534-542
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dramatic declines of some arthropod populations have recently received a lot of attention. Identified declines have mainly been attributed to changes in agriculture, climate, pathogen prevalence and light pollution, as well as cross-regional effects of, e.g., drifting pesticides. However, the overall picture is complex and debated, and there is a need for systematically collected long-term data, not least from areas relatively unaffected by humans. We monitored the abundance of arthropods (mainly insects) in subalpine birch forest in Swedish Lapland over a period of 53 years (1968-2020), in an area comparatively unaffected by human activities. Arthropod abundance was assessed by yearly systematic counts on 24,000 birch shoots, in the second half of June. Animals were categorised into 17 different groups directly upon counting, dependent on taxonomy and life stage (imago, larva). Overall, there was no significant change in arthropod numbers. Nor did estimates of the total biomass of arthropods (using group-specific indices of the mass of individuals) show any significant trend. Accordingly, there are no signs that the arthropod abundance or biomass on birch in this subarctic study site has gone through the same declines as have been reported from sites in other habitats. The reason may be that the impact of factors identified worldwide as drivers of arthropod declines so far are small or non-existent because of the low human population density in this area.
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| 14. |
- Berg, Åke, et al.
(author)
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Butterflies in semi-natural pastures and power-line corridors - effects of flower richness, management, and structural vegetation characteristics
- 2013
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 6, s. 639-657
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study was to compare the butterfly assemblages in semi-natural pastures and power-line corridors and to analyse the effects of vegetation height, occurrence of trees and shrubs and different flowering vascular plant groups on butterfly diversity and abundance. Twelve of 26 analysed butterfly species were more abundant in power-line corridors than in semi-natural pastures. Only one species preferred semi-natural pastures. In semi-natural pastures butterflies were most common in segments with tall vegetation, whereas butterflies in power-line corridors were most common in segments with vegetation of short or intermediate height. Short vegetation was sparser in power-line corridors (mean cover 4%) than in semi-natural pastures (33%), whereas tall vegetation was more common in power-line corridors (59%) than in semi-natural pastures (35%). The amount of flowers was the factor that affected the abundance of most species. Twenty-one of the 26 species showed positive associations with numbers of flowers of different families. Flowers of the plant families Apiaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Primulaceae, Rubiaceae, Scrophulariaceae, and Violaceae showed positive associations with the abundance of several butterfly species. Vegetation height seems to be a limiting factor in semi-natural pastures, and less intensive management (division of pastures into grazing pens, late season grazing, grazing every second year, or reduced grazing pressure) would benefit butterflies. In power-line corridors (dominated by tall vegetation) the opposite would be beneficial for butterflies, for example more frequent clearing of vegetation along the power-line trails combined with mowing of selected areas.
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| 15. |
- Birkhofer, Klaus, et al.
(author)
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Grassy margins along organically managed cereal fields foster trait diversity and taxonomic distinctness of arthropod communities
- 2014
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-4598 .- 1752-458X. ; 7:3, s. 274-287
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- It is not known if grassy margins contribute to the conservation of biodiversity if situated along organically managed cereal fields as the contrast in environmental conditions between fields and margins may be too small in absence of pesticide applications. Communities of spiders, ground beetles, true bugs and aphids were sampled in 2years along transects from the centre of organically managed cereal fields into adjacent grassy margins. Based on species richness, abundances, ecological and body size traits of species and taxonomic distinctness between species, communities were compared between organically managed cereal fields and their grassy margins. The species richness, abundance and variation in taxonomic distinctness of true bugs were significantly higher in grassy margins. For spiders and ground beetles, these metrics were either higher in cereal fields or did not differ significantly. At the species level, spiders living under stones or in soil crevices, as well as phytophagous ground beetles and true bugs that overwinter as eggs benefited from grassy margins. True bug communities in cereal fields were dominated by a few abundant species, whereas communities in margins were rather dominated by a few large species. Our comprehensive analyses highlight the importance of accounting for species identities and biology in biodiversity studies. The traits that characterised arthropod species that benefited from margins are not characteristic for pest species. Grassy margins along organic fields therefore represent an important agri-environmental scheme for the conservation of several arthropod taxa and margins should not be removed to increase the crop production area in organically managed cereal fields.
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| 16. |
- Brehm, Gunnar, et al.
(author)
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Moths are strongly attracted to ultraviolet and blue radiation
- 2021
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 14:2, s. 188-198
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We carried out three choice experiments with 6116 nocturnal lepidopteran individuals (95 species, 7 families, 32 075 counts), each replicated 105 times during the seasons of 2 years. Moths were released indoors at the centre of a 10 × 10 m area with different lamps placed at each corner. In experiment 1, lamps emitted ultraviolet (UV) (peak at 365 nm), blue (450 nm), green (520 nm) or cool white (450 and 520 nm) radiation. In experiment 2, UV was replaced by red (640 nm). In experiment 3, we used UV and three mixed radiation lamps of different emission intensities (365–520 nm). We applied a linear mixed effect model to test for differences in attraction to the light sources. Among all counts, 12.2% (males) and 9.2% (females) were attracted to a lamp. Among the lamp counts, 84% were made at the UV lamp in experiment 1. In experiment 2, 63% of the counts were made at the blue lamp. In experiment 3, most counts were made at the strongest mixed radiation lamp (31%), and the UV lamp (28%). Patterns were generally similar across Lepidopteran families, and for both sexes. Moths are clearly preferentially attracted to short-wave radiation. Even small quantities of UV radiation, emitted, for example, by metal halide lamps and certain mercury vapour tubes, will disproportionately contribute to light pollution. Since blue light also attracts moths strongly, lamps with a low proportion of blue light should be given priority in lighting planning.
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| 17. |
- Cocos, Dragos, et al.
(author)
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An efficient detection method for the red-listed beetle Acanthocinus griseus based on attractant-baited traps
- 2017
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 10, s. 294-301
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Many insect species that depend on dead wood (saproxylic) are difficult to detect because of their concealed life-style, small size and camouflage. This limits available information and thus poses problems when assessing their conservation status. Thus, more efficient detection methods are required for more accurate red-list classifications.2. The aim of this study was to develop an efficient method for detecting the red-listed saproxylic beetle Acanthocinus griseus, through experiments with multifunnel traps baited with different potential attractants and placed in various types of forest stands in Sweden.3. Acanthocinus griseus was strongly attracted to the bark beetle pheromones ipsdienol and ipsenol. Catches were almost four times higher in fresh clear-cuts than in pine stands, and about two times higher than in old clear-cuts. Catches in old clear-cuts increased when the monoterpene a-pinene was added to bark beetle pheromones. The flight period of A. griseus extended from June to August.4. Acanthocinus griseus has been previously considered a rare species. However, this study with attractant-baited traps doubled the total number of records of the species on the Swedish mainland in just two seasons and tripled the number of observed or caught adults, demonstrating that it should not be considered rare in the studied region.
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| 18. |
- de La Peña Aguilera, Pablo, et al.
(author)
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Consistent imprints of elevation, soil temperature and moisture on plant and arthropod communities across two subarctic landscapes
- 2023
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 16, s. 684-700
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Factors shaping arthropod and plant community structure at fine spatial scales are poorly understood. This includes microclimate, which likely plays a large role in shaping local community patterns, especially in heterogeneous landscapes characterised by high microclimatic variability in space and in time.2. We explored differences in local microclimatic conditions and regional species pools in two subarctic regions: Kilpisj & auml;rvi in north-west Finland and Varanger in north-east Norway. We then investigated the relationship between fine-scale climatic variation and local community characteristics (species richness and abundance) among plants and arthropods, differentiating the latter into two groups: flying and ground-dwelling arthropods collected by Malaise and pitfall traps, respectively. Arthropod taxa were identified through DNA metabarcoding. Finally, we examined if plant richness can be used to predict patterns in arthropod communities.3. Variation in soil temperature, moisture and snow depth proved similar between regions, despite differences in absolute elevation. For each group of organisms, we found that about half of the species were shared between Kilpisj & auml;rvi and Varanger, with a quarter unique to each region.4. Plants and arthropods responded largely to the same drivers. The richness and abun-dance of both groups decreased as elevation increased and were positively correlated with higher soil moisture and temperature values. Plant species richness was a poor predictor of local arthropod richness, in particular for ground-dwelling arthropods.5. Our results reveal how microclimatic variation within each region carves pro-nounced, yet consistent patterns in local community richness and abundance out of a joint species pool.
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| 19. |
- Feng, Lanya, et al.
(author)
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Fallows and permanent grasslands conserve the species composition and functional diversity of carabid beetles and linyphiid spiders in agricultural landscapes
- 2021
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 14:6, s. 825-836
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The European Union reformed the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP 2013) to include greening measures with the aim to decrease negative impacts of farming on the environment and biodiversity. The degree to which greening measures such as permanent grassland or fallows of different ages enhance biodiversity is still debated. We investigate the effect of fallows in two different age classes and permanent grassland in the surrounding landscape on the taxonomic and functional diversity of two numerically dominant groups of natural enemies in cereal fields: soil-emerging carabid beetles (Family Carabidae, Order Coleoptera) and ground-active linyphiid spiders (Family Linyphiidae, Order Araneae). The species richness, abundance and Hill–Shannon diversity of carabids and linyphiids did not differ significantly between fallows and cereal fields and was not significantly related to the proportion of permanent grassland in the surrounding landscape. The species composition of both communities differed significantly between cereal fields and fallows. The functional distinctness, as an index reflecting the similarity among species in terms of functional traits, of linyphiids was significantly higher in fallows than in cereal fields. The trait composition of carabids was significantly related to the proportion of permanent grassland depending on field type (cereal or fallow). Our results document considerable species turnover in natural enemy communities of adjacent cereal fields and fallows, and support the assumption that older fallows (>8 years) produce functionally more diverse natural enemy communities. Maintaining fallows for a long period is an important measure to promote the functional diversity in predaceous arthropod communities.
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| 20. |
- Fourcade, Yoan, et al.
(author)
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Population dynamics of the butterfly Pyrgus armoricanus after translocation beyond its northern range margin
- 2020
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 13, s. 617-629
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Translocation experiments can be used to study the factors limiting species' distributions and to infer potential drivers of successful colonisation during range shifts. To study the expansion dynamics of the butterflyPyrgus armoricanusin southern Sweden and to find out whether its distribution was limited by climate, translocation experiments were carried out within and 50-60 km beyond its natural range margin. Populations were monitored for 8 years following the translocation. Although most translocation attempts failed,P. armoricanuswas able to survive in two sites north of its current range limit. One of them eventually led to expansion and establishment of a viable metapopulation. Translocation success appeared to be independent of latitude, suggesting that climate is not the main factor determining the current northern distribution limits of this butterfly. Population growth and secondary spread in the expanding population were positively related to patch area and connectivity, while local habitat quality seemed to be less important. The successful translocation and the importance of a well-connected patch network suggest that the current distribution ofP. armoricanusis limited by its low dispersal ability combined with the fragmentation of its habitat, making it unlikely to track its changing climatic niche. Assisted migration could be an effective tool for such species, but long-term evidence for its effectiveness is not yet available.
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| 21. |
- Franzén, Markus, et al.
(author)
-
Long-distance movements, large population sizes and density-dependent dispersal in three threatened butterfly species
- 2024
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : WILEY. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. This study investigates the ecology of three threatened butterfly species on a 60 km2 site in Gotland, Southeast Sweden, using mark-recapture methods from 2017 to 2020. 2. Nearly 30,000 captures were recorded, with average lifespans of 6 days for Euphydryas aurinia (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) and Parnassius apollo (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) and 2 days for Phengaris arion (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). 3.Population size, density and maximum flight distances varied between species, with E. aurinia at 7.2 km, P. apollo at 6.4 km and P. arion at 2.5 km. 4.Movement data showed the lognormal kernel fit better than gamma, negative exponential and half-normal kernels for distance travelled per time unit across species and sexes. 5. Generalised linear models revealed significant positive density-dependent emigration and negative density-dependent immigration in all three species. 6. Despite available suitable habitats, these species face threats from limestone quarry expansions, agricultural intensification, modified forestry practices, natural succession and climate change, highlighting the need for proactive conservation and strategic habitat management.
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| 22. |
- Gagic, Vesna
(author)
-
Community variability in aphid parasitoids versus predators in response to agricultural intensification
- 2014
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 7, s. 103-112
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Agricultural intensification (AI) is a great threat to biodiversity and its negative effects on species richness of different communities have been repeatedly shown. The effects of AI on community composition and variability, however, are important for assessing the predictability of community responses, but have rarely been studied simultaneously and across different taxonomic groups. In this study, we focused on parasitoids (primary and secondary) and predators (hoverflies and carabid beetles) of aphids in winter wheat fields with contrasting AI regimes (low AI, i.e. organic fields in structurally complex landscapes vs. high AI, i.e. conventional fields in structurally simple landscapes). We found divergence in species composition of more specialised, low-dispersing primary and secondary parasitoids within high AI fields, probably due to the disruption of the exchanges of species between local populations in structurally simple landscapes. In contrast, species composition of less specialised, highly dispersing carabid beetles and hoverflies converged in fields with high AI, where they were characterised by the dominance of a single, vagile species adapted to high land-use conditions. Furthermore, temporal community shifts were only pronounced in primary parasitoids and hoverflies, with higher temporal changes in fields with high AI in primary parasitoids. Collectively, our results illustrate that environmental homogenisation due to AI does not necessarily induce spatio-temporal homogenisation of communities, but rather can have contrasting effects on more specialised, low-dispersive parasitoids versus more generalised, high-dispersive predators, thereby demonstrating great differences in the predictability of responses to AI among aphid natural enemies
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| 23. |
- Ghisbain, Guillaume, et al.
(author)
-
A worthy conservation target? Revising the status of the rarest bumblebee of Europe
- 2021
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 14:5, s. 661-674
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Against the context of global wildlife declines, targeted mitigation strategies have become critical to preserve what remains of biodiversity. However, the effective development of conservation tools in order to counteract these changes relies on unambiguous taxonomic determination and delineation.In this study, we focus on an endemic bumblebee species recorded only from the highest altitudes of the Sierra Nevada (Spain), Bombus reinigiellus (Rasmont, 1983). The species has the smallest range of any European bumblebee, along with a restricted diet and an inability to disperse because of its isolated montane distribution, making it an appropriate conservation target. However, through an integrative taxonomic approach including genetics, morphometrics and semio-chemistry, we demonstrate the conspecificity of this taxon with one of the most common and widespread bumblebee species of Europe, Bombus hortorum (L. 1761). We assign a subspecies status to this endemic taxon (Bombus hortorum reinigiellus comb. nov.) shown to be different in colour and morphology but also in wing shape and relative wing size compared to the other conspecific subspecies.Following our taxonomic revision, we reassessed the IUCN conservation status of Bombus hortorum both at the continental and Spanish scale. We then propose how historic climatic oscillations of the last Ice age could explain such a phenotypic divergence in a post-glacial refugium and highlight the critical role of establishing unambiguous taxonomic revision prior to any conservation assessment.
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| 24. |
- Hallinger, Martin, et al.
(author)
-
Does it pay to concentrate conservation efforts for dead-wood dependent insects close to existing reserves : a test on conservation planning in Sweden
- 2018
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 11:4, s. 317-329
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Forestry has significantly changed many boreal forest landscapes with negative effects on biodiversity. Main reasons are habitat loss and deterioration, due to a simplified forest composition, including a reduction in old trees and dead wood. In Sweden, measures to counter the loss of biodiversity are taken at forest harvesting, and include forest harvest retention.Areas of high conservation values (AHCV) have been identified in Sweden to prioritise conservation efforts, but so far these areas have not been used when making decisions about forest harvest retention.In this study, we tested if dead wood from forest harvest retention is used by more dead wood‐dependent insect species (24 beetles and four other insects, redlisted or indicating high biodiversity) on clearcuts within than outside of AHCVs and whether the composition of the surrounding landscape influences species occurrence.There were not more dead wood‐dependent insect species per clearcut within AHCVs than outside. The surrounding landscape had an influence on the species richness on clearcuts, but in several cases the pattern was the opposite of our hypotheses. Increased standing volume of relevant tree species, however, tended to increase the occurrence or number of associated species.The designation of ACHVs in Sweden is not related with occurrence of dead wood or dead wood‐dependent organisms. We also found that landscape context can have effects on species richness. The result urges for better planning so that ACHV areas are designated in landscapes where their potential for conservation of dead wood‐dependent organisms is highest.
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| 25. |
- Harvey, Deborah J., et al.
(author)
-
Making the invisible visible : Determining an accurate national distribution of Elater ferrugineus in the United Kingdom using pheromones
- 2017
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 10:4, s. 1-11
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To date, conservation-status saproxylic beetle species in the UK have been monitored by chance findings or by monitor-based observational studies. Here, using Elater ferrugineus as our target species, we present the first national distribution survey carried out in the UK or across mainland Europe on such a species using chemicals produced by the insect. Over 3 years, mark-release-recapture studies were performed across the UK, using 416 lured (pheromone) traps monitored by volunteer recorders; the first survey in Europe to do so. Traps were baited with 7-methyloctyl- (Z)-4-decenoate, a compound previously identified as a female sex pheromone. The results were used to plot a distribution map and investigate factors that may influence the distribution, including summer temperatures, possible habitat availability and larval food source. The survey revealed a south-eastern distribution of E. ferrugineus in the UK, which was suggested by previous casual studies. A correlative model was fitted to the data, indicating that 55% of the variation in the distribution of E. ferrugineus was explained by climatic variables (temperature and wind speed).
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| 26. |
- Harvey, Deborah J., et al.
(author)
-
Use of novel attraction compounds increases monitoring success of a rare beetle, Elater ferrugineus
- 2017
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 10:2, s. 161-170
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The use of pheromones to determine distributions of rare saproxylic insects is an increasingly popular technique. Pheromones may, however, also be used to elucidate the biology of these cryptic species, a vital requirement if they are to be accurately monitored and conserved. We used non-invasive aerial trapping to compare the effectiveness of chemicals produced by Elater ferrugineus L (Coleoptera: Elateridae), namely 7-methyloctyl (Z)-4-decenoate (the female-produced sex pheromone), and male compounds (geranyl and neryl acetone and 6-methyl-5-heptene-2-one). The male compounds were identified using headspace analysis by solid phase micro-extraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We discovered that males only produce these two compounds after having been attracted to a female, and that this serves to attract further males to a female. Such compounds do not appear to attract females but for a species that has a short activity period and is non-feeding in the adult stage, may ensure breeding success when populations are low. By marking all beetles caught, we were able to demonstrate that recapture rate using this method is low (approximately 11% of total captures annually). Therefore, the method does not limit dispersal or breeding opportunities, making it a valuable tool for monitoring endangered saproxylic beetle species.
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| 27. |
- Johansson, Victor, et al.
(author)
-
Oviposition preferences and larval survival of the marsh fritillary butterfly : The adverse impact of grazing
- 2024
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 17:4, s. 642-650
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Species-rich semi-natural grasslands have been lost during the last century due to agricultural intensification. This has had large negative consequences for many specialised species, including grassland butterflies. To prevent further loss, management regimes in the remaining grasslands must maintain habitat quality over time, and we therefore need to understand the habitat preferences of specialised species and how different management regimes affect their survival. We studied the egg-laying preferences of the threatened marsh fritillary butterfly in relation to host plant properties, microclimate and management (grazing) on Gotland, Sweden. Moreover, we followed the survival of eggs and larvae from 27 egg batches during a period of 8 months (from June 2020 to March 2021) in grazed and ungrazed areas. We found 92 egg batches in total and the average number of eggs was 184.5. Egg-laying probability increased with increasing host plant size and abundance, and environmental variables associated with a warm microclimate (low grass cover, low vegetation height and south-facing edges). The 27 egg batches that were followed over time had on average 203 eggs in June. Roughly 28% of the eggs developed into larvae, and about 17% of these survived over the entire study period, resulting in an overall 4.7% survival. Egg survival was higher in ungrazed habitats compared with grazed; in March (post-hibernation), there were almost nine times more eggs in ungrazed habitats. This study highlights the complex habitat ecology of specialised butterflies and underscores the detrimental impact of intense grazing, advocating for rotational grazing or mowing regimes. We study oviposition preferences and survival of both eggs and larvae (post-hibernation) for the marsh fritillary, in relation to host plant availability, microclimate conditions and grazing management Egg-laying probability increased with increasing host plant size and abundance, and environmental variables associated with a warm microclimate (low grass cover, low vegetation height and south-facing edges) Egg survival was clearly higher in ungrazed habitats compared with grazed; in March (post-hibernation), there were almost nine times more eggs in ungrazed habitats. image
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| 28. |
- Johansson, Victor, et al.
(author)
-
Quick recovery of a threatened butterfly in well-connected patches following an extreme drought
- 2022
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 15:5, s. 572-582
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change. We therefore need to understand how species respond to these events. In 2018, the worst drought ever recorded hit the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, which led to a major decline of the threatened marsh fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) the succeeding summer. We compared yearly occupancy among 256 habitat patches between 2018 and 2020 and analysed the colonisation-extinction dynamics between 2019 and 2020 in relation to patch area, connectivity, and habitat quality. Moreover, using capture-mark-release data in two patch clusters differing in connectivity, we also compared population sizes before and after the drought and analysed 'population growth rates'. We also compared yearly abundance of host plants (Succisa pratensis) over time. Results show a remarkable recovery of the marsh fritillary. Both patch occupancy in 2020 and the number of individuals in the well-connected patch cluster were higher than before the drought. In contrast, host plants were fewer and smaller, which taken together suggest that the amount of food resources was roughly half in 2020 compared to the pre-drought conditions. Moreover, the butterfly population in the less connected patch cluster was eight times smaller compared to the population size before the drought. Local colonisations, extinctions, and population growth rates were explained by connectivity. The ability to quickly recover after extreme droughts is promising in times of climate change. The significance of connectivity for the population dynamics during recovery highlights the importance of maintaining well-connected patch networks.
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| 29. |
- Kaartinen, Riikka, et al.
(author)
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A rapid assessment of a poorly known insect group
- 2016
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 9, s. 49-62
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. 'Conservation planning and ecological analyses require large-scale data on species' abundance and distribution. We describe a national effort to quickly establish the distributions of taxa with hard-to-identify adults but easily identifiable larval stages: cynipid gall wasps (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae, Cynipini) on oak (Quercus robur).2. The survey was implemented by volunteers across 239 sites over 687 km of latitude. It yielded 10 523 galls, which were identified by specialists. The material revealed two species new to Finland and the national distributions and local abundances of 16 species.3. The likelihood of finding a given species was significantly affected by the visual apparency of its galls. This suggests that some cryptic generations may have been missed in the sampling.4. At the national level, our study exposed systematic changes in the species richness of insect taxa associated with a patchily distributed host plant towards its range margin. Species' incidences decline as host trees grow increasingly scattered within the landscape.5. From a conservation perspective, the data increased eight-fold the known records of gall wasps from Finland, and informed the first assessment of national threat status of these taxa.6. Our study reveals how the efforts of the public may be efficiently harnessed for revealing the current status of poorly known taxa. In addition to delivering a first survey of the target taxa, and of factors affecting their distribution, such 'citizen science' may generate a permanent base of enthusiasts for the future monitoring of changes and trends.
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| 30. |
- Koch, Kamilla, et al.
(author)
-
Farmland versus forest : comparing changes in Odonata species composition in western and eastern Sweden
- 2014
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - Chichester, West Sussex : Wiley-Blackwell. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 7:1, s. 22-31
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Despite the loss of natural ecosystems in the developed world during the past millennia, anthropogenic landscapes still sustain much biodiversity. Our question was, whether ten year changes in regional Odonata faunas are comparable between farmland and forested areas, or if the species pool of farmland areas respond in other ways than that of forest.2. We used data of dragonfly larvae collected from 16 lakes in a farmland area in south-western Sweden in the years 2002 and 2011/12, and compared these to data from 34 lakes in a forest area in south-eastern Sweden in the years 1996 and 2006.3. The species-richness in the agricultural region increased by 17% but decreased by 13% in the forested region. The changes in occurrence and regional distribution were similar in both areas, affecting 71% and 69% of the species pool. Average extinction rates were comparable between the agricultural and the forested region (38% and 43%) while colonisation rates differed greatly (64% and 114%).4. The species composition differed between the regions; the forest lakes harboured a 29% larger species pool. It is possible that in the forested region, the regional species pool in areas surrounding the study sites could stabilise the extinction and have a positive effect on changes in species composition. We assume that the different habitat structures of the waters in the agricultural and the forest regions and changes in temperature are the main driving forces behind the shifts. The mean seasonal air temperature has increased by circa 0.5°C in both regions, when comparing ten-year periods before each sampling year.
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| 31. |
- Larsson, Malin, et al.
(author)
-
Night, light and flight: light attraction in Trichoptera
- 2020
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : WILEY. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 13:3, s. 296-302
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Artificial light is an important and necessary part of urban environments, but light can have substantial direct and indirect effects on populations of various organisms. Urban areas are often situated close to water and thus organisms dependent on water could be especially vulnerable. Trichoptera is one of the most abundant insect orders in freshwater, but its attraction to light has not been analysed in detail. We contrasted catches in light traps and passive traps at three locations in Sweden. The results showed that artificial light can affect Trichoptera populations. Attraction to light varied between Trichoptera species and females were more attracted than males. Day-, evening- and especially night-active species were all attracted to light. Light catches of day- and evening-active Trichoptera could partly be a consequence of atypical flight activity, i.e. they are deceived to take flight when a lamp is lit during night. In all, artificial light can alter Trichoptera populations, sex ratios and species composition. This impact should be considered when erecting and managing light sources near waterways.
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| 32. |
- Milberg, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Low host-tree preferences among saproxylic beetles : acomparison of four deciduous species
- 2014
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley-Blackwell. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 7:6, s. 508-522
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Many wood-dwelling beetles rely on old hollow trees. In Europe, oaks are known to harbour a species-rich saproxylic beetle fauna, while less is known regarding other broad-leaved tree species. Furthermore, the extent to which saproxylic insect species have specialised on different tree species remains unknown.In this study, we sampled beetles through pitfall traps and window traps in four different tree species in a landscape with many old oaks.We recorded 242 saproxylic beetle species of which 27 were red-listed. After eliminating the species recorded only on a single tree, few cases among the 171 remaining species in the data set were confined to a single tree species.Using odds ratios, we showed that 19 of the 171 beetle species showed significant associations with Quercus robur in at least one of the two trap types. For Acer platanoides, Fraxinus excelsior and Tilia cordata, the corresponding numbers were 6, 2 and 5, respectively. One species showed a negative association with Q. robur.Using meta-analysis, we quantified the degree of association between the beetle species and the tree species. The associations were most profound among species classified as obligate saproxylic rather than facultative in lifestyle. Overall, a significant association was only found with Q. robur.We conclude that the saproxylic fauna is dominated by non-specialist species but includes a small proportion of truly host-tree-specific species. Furthermore, other broad-leaved trees can be important as supporting habitats for many saproxylic organisms that have had presumed associations with oaks to date.
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| 33. |
- Monsimet, Jeremy, et al.
(author)
-
Contrasted propensity for waterborne and airborne dispersal between two closely related semi-aquatic spider species
- 2022
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 15:6, s. 704-713
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dispersal abilities are important to support metapopulation functioning and species distributions, yet it is rarely accounted for in conservation. Here, we compared the propensity for dispersal between the two fishing spiders present in Europe: the widespread habitat-generalist Dolomedes fimbriatus and the scarcer red-listed Dolomedes plantarius. We experimentally tested for airborne and waterborne dispersal using first instar juveniles sampled in nursery webs, and older juveniles. We estimated the propensity for short and long-distance dispersal of airborne and waterborne behaviours, and we tested the difference between species with generalised linear mixed models. Airborne (ballooning) and waterborne (sailing) behaviours were more frequent for D. fimbriatus than for D. plantarius, indicating a higher propensity of the former for long-distance dispersal. The frequency of rappelling behaviour, and thus the propensity for short-distance dispersal, did not differ between species. However, we found contrasting results for short-distance dispersal on the water, with rowing being more frequent and running less frequent for D. plantarius than for D. fimbriatus. The different propensity for dispersal between the two species might be partly explained by the ecology of D. plantarius, which is known to be more habitat-specialist and more dependent to water bodies than D. fimbriatus. The limited propensity for dispersal of the red-listed D. plantarius is another argument for conserving an interconnected network of wetlands in Fennoscandia. Indeed, increased isolation of populations would be detrimental for species maintenance.
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| 34. |
- Roslin, Tomas
(author)
-
Opportunistic habitat use by Osmoderma barnabita (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), a saproxylic beetle dependent on tree cavities
- 2016
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 9, s. 38-48
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Genus Osmoderma, a flagship taxon for invertebrate conservation in Europe, consists of beetles specialised in tree hollows.2. We established the range and habitat requirements of O. barnabita in Finland. Taking a hierarchical approach, we used volunteer entomologists to map the national distribution of the species. Within the range defined, we established its habitat requirements at a hierarchy of scales, from the local microhabitat (i. e. tree species, amount and type of wood mould), to the host tree (its size and status as being dead or alive), and the insolation properties and accessibility of the site.3. In Finland, O. barnabita was found to occur within a single area, focused on the country's largest oak-containing woodland. Within this restricted range, the pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) was proved to be the most preferred host, with additional occurrences on trees such as lime (Tilia) and alder (Alnus). Large tree individuals were more frequently occupied than the smaller ones, with an incidence of 90% on the largest oaks. Against this background, factors describing other aspects of the environment added no independent power to explain the incidence.4. Based on the current results, O. barnabita requires a large network of tree hollows. Within such a network, it will occur with a high probability in almost any large, hollow tree, regardless of the finer characteristics of the tree or its cavities. Thus, the conservation management of O. barnabita should be focused on securing a good supply of suitable veteran trees rather than managing individual trees with established occurrences of the species.
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| 35. |
- Rubene, Diana, et al.
(author)
-
Estimating bee and wasp (Hymenoptera: Aculeata) diversity on clear-cuts in forest landscapes - an evaluation of sampling methods
- 2015
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 8, s. 261-271
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To assess species diversity efficiently and adequately, it is important to understand how species diversity assessments are affected by sampling effort and methodology. We evaluated methods for sampling bees and wasps on clear-cuts in managed boreal forest landscapes to assess the effects of trap type, sampling effort and time within season on observed species diversity. We found that pan traps and window traps captured similar numbers of species, whereas a much lower number was captured by trap-nests. The efficiency of the trap types varied between species groups, with pollen-collecting bees being most effectively sampled by pan traps and dead wood-nesting bees and wasps by window traps. Species turnover over time was moderate, and consequently the sampling period could be reduced to 5-6weeks in boreal forests and similar habitat types without a major decrease in the number of species collected. We recommend using window traps for bees and wasps in forest habitats. Combining trap types is recommended if the aim is to collect broad species assemblages, while single types are most useful for the efficient collection of specific species groups.
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| 36. |
- Sielezniew, Marcin, et al.
(author)
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Population genetics of the endangered obligatorily myrmecophilous butterfly Phengaris (=Maculinea) arion in two areas of its European range
- 2015
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 8:6, s. 505-516
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. The socially parasitic Phengaris arion is one of the most threatened butterfly species in Europe. Using 12 microsatellite loci, we studied the genetic structure of 14 ecologically diverse populations (285 individuals) originating from two distinct areas of the European distribution range (Poland and Italy). Italian populations were more differentiated (F-ST=0.124) than Polish populations (0.073). Nevertheless, in contrast to the results of previous studies on mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (EF-1) genes, indices of genetic variability were higher in Poland. Within-population genetic variability in Italy decreased southwards, whereas in Poland no similar gradient of changes was detected. Bayesian clustering of individuals (STRUCTURE, BAPS) and analysis of principal components (PCA) indicated a genetic structure in Italian sampling sites that was more pronounced than in Poland. The analysis also suggested a common evolutionary history for populations inhabiting the northern slopes of the Alps and Central Europe, or that the alpine populations are localised in a mixed zone of different post-glacial colonisation routes (STRUCTURE, PCA). In addition, implementation of spatial information into the analysis (BAPS) suggested that the observed pattern of differentiation could be shaped simply by landforms as all Italian sampling sites and two mountainous Polish sites formed separate cluster. The pattern of ecological variation did not influence genetic structure and no grounds for separation of subspecies (P.arion ligurica and P.arion obscura) were found. Our results are therefore in agreement with conclusions inferred from other studies carried out in Europe on P.arion.
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| 37. |
- Victorsson, Jonas, et al.
(author)
-
Effects of stump extraction on saproxylic beetle diversity in Swedish clear-cuts
- 2013
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 6, s. 483-493
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Stump extraction for bio energy is a new forestry activity and before large-scale implementation occurs, it is important to analyse its consequences. Saproxylic beetles depend on dead trees and stump extraction will reduce the amount of habitat available for this group. 2. Early warning signs of impending regional species extinctions were looked for in areas where stump harvest has only been conducted for about 3 years. In a paired design (N = 8), the beetle fauna was sampled in stumps on ordinary clear-cuts and on clear-cuts from which stumps had been extracted. Sampling in extraction clear-cuts was possible because 25% of the stump volume was retained. Samples were collected by bark sieving ten Norway spruce, Picea abies, stumps per clear-cut. 3. In total, 6959 individuals of 46 species were found. Several early warning signs were seen: stump extraction reduced the number of species per stump and per clear-cut and reduced the species evenness in individual stumps. 4. Species at higher trophic levels (predators and fungivores), in particular, suffered negative effects. Stump extraction reduced the number of species of fungivores and facultative predators/fungivores at the clear-cut level and reduced the relative abundance of predators at the stump level. 5. These results indicate that if stumps are extracted from a high proportion of the clear-cuts in a region, the present recommendations of leaving 15-25% of the stump volume will be insufficient for preserving the beetle fauna in the stumps. Further studies are needed to identify levels of stump retention that do not lead to species loss.
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| 38. |
- Westerfelt, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Nesting of solitary wasps and bees in natural and artificial holes in dead wood in young boreal forest stands
- 2015
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X .- 1752-4598. ; 8, s. 493-504
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 1. Life history traits of solitary nest provisioning bees and wasps (Aculeata) are characterised by low fecundity and extensive parental care. Therefore, it can be expected that egg-laying females are demanding in their nest choice. 2. Dead wood in young boreal forest stands in mid-Sweden were surveyed for holes made by different insect species and the occupancy of solitary bees or wasps in those holes was analysed. Artificial nests consisting of wooden poles with pre-drilled holes were used for comparison. 3. In 1634 wood objects, 5793 potential nesting holes of 16 types were labelled to insect species or genera that had made the hole. Only 1.8% of these were occupied by any bee or wasp species. In contrast to the natural wood objects, artificial nests had high occupancy (c. 30%). 4. Hole diameter, rather than tree species, hole type or stand age, was the most important factor explaining occupancy of a certain aculeate species. Holes in standing dead wood (SDW) had higher occupancy than holes in stumps and logs. 5. The results are discussed in the context of aculeate life history traits. It is argued that the reason for the low occupancy in the natural dead wood, espe- cially in the stumps, was that most holes were situated in moist and decayed wood, and offered inferior conditions for offspring during the development from egg to adult. 6. Retention and creation of SDW objects of different tree species at final felling is recommended.
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| 39. |
- Reverté, Sara, et al.
(author)
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National records of 3000 European bee and hoverfly species : A contribution to pollinator conservation
- 2023
-
In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - 1752-458X. ; 16:6, s. 758-775
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Pollinators play a crucial role in ecosystems globally, ensuring the seed production of most flowering plants. They are threatened by global changes and knowledge of their distribution at the national and continental levels is needed to implement efficient conservation actions, but this knowledge is still fragmented and/or difficult to access. As a step forward, we provide an updated list of around 3000 European bee and hoverfly species, reflecting their current distributional status at the national level (in the form of present, absent, regionally extinct, possibly extinct or non-native). This work was attainable by incorporating both published and unpublished data, as well as knowledge from a large set of taxonomists and ecologists in both groups. After providing the first National species lists for bees and hoverflies for many countries, we examine the current distributional patterns of these species and designate the countries with highest levels of species richness. We also show that many species are recorded in a single European country, highlighting the importance of articulating European and national conservation strategies. Finally, we discuss how the data provided here can be combined with future trait and Red List data to implement research that will further advance pollinator conservation.
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| 40. |
- Söderman, Annika M E, et al.
(author)
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Contrasting effects of field boundary management on three pollinator groups
- 2016
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In: Insect Conservation and Diversity. - : Wiley. - 1752-458X. ; 9:5, s. 427-437
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Uncultivated field boundaries constitute a significant part of the remaining semi-natural habitat in simplified agricultural landscapes, providing habitats for many grassland species. In Europe, agri-environment schemes (AES) offer incentives to farmers to manage farmland more environmentally friendly. In Sweden, one AES has specifically targeted management of incidental habitats on farmland by promoting removal of woody vegetation to benefit cultural heritage and biodiversity. This study investigates if pollinating insects benefit from removal of woody vegetation and whether any such benefits depend on the structural complexity of the surrounding landscape. Using a nested study design, pollinator communities were compared in pairs of managed and unmanaged field boundaries in landscapes of different complexity. The effect of removing trees and bushes in field boundaries varied among pollinator groups. Bumblebee species richness and abundance benefited from the management, whereas the species richness of solitary bees and hoverflies were unaffected. The abundance of solitary bees was higher in managed field boundaries, but only late in the season in complex landscapes, while the same management lowered the hoverfly abundance particularly late in the season. Landscape complexity did not affect bumblebees, while the abundance of solitary bees and the species richness of hoverflies were positively correlated with increasing landscape complexity, but at different spatial scales. The contrasting effects of management on different organism groups shown in this study, illustrate the importance of studies conducted on multiple taxa. Management prescriptions based on results from one pollinator group may not benefit other pollinator groups. Insect Conservation and Diversity
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