Latest Articles from Alpine Entomology Latest 54 Articles from Alpine Entomology https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 01:58:14 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Alpine Entomology https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/ A new osmiine bee with a spectacular geographic disjunction: Hoplitis (Hoplitis) onosmaevae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Anthophila, Megachilidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/118039/ Alpine Entomology 8: 65-79

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.8.118039

Authors: Matthieu Aubert, Andreas Müller, Christophe Praz

Abstract: A new osmiine bee species, Hoplitis (Hoplitis) onosmaevae sp. nov. (Megachilidae), is described. So far, this species is exclusively known from the Mercantour National Park in the southwestern French Alps and from mountainous ranges in Turkey and northern Iraq, two areas separated by at least 2000 km. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes revealed that H. onosmaevae is closely related to H. adunca (Panzer, 1798), H. benoisti (Alfken, 1935) and H. manicata (Morice, 1901). Hoplitis onosmaevae is presumably narrowly oligolectic and harvests pollen only on flowers of Onosma L. (Boraginaceae). It has a particularly long proboscis, which is probably an adaptation to collect nectar from the long-tubed flowers of this plant genus. The females collect pollen by buzzing the Onosma flowers, a rare behavior in megachilid bees. The species nests in insect burrows in dead wood, similar to H. adunca and H. manicata but unlike other closely related representatives of the subgenus Hoplitis, suggesting a single origin of nesting in dead wood and hollow stems in this lineage. In France, H. onosmaevae inhabits alpine steppe-like habitats close to forests and appears to be extremely local, since only two populations are currently known. The conservation status of this extremely rare bee species in Europe is discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:56:34 +0200
Liste commentée des Cerophytidae, Elateridae, Eucnemidae et Throscidae du bassin genevois (Coleoptera) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/116799/ Alpine Entomology 8: 51-64

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.8.116799

Authors: Mickaël Blanc, Stève Breitenmoser, Céline Rochet

Abstract: Une liste des Cerophytidae, Elateridae, Eucnemidae et Throscidae du bassin genevois est présentée avec quelques commentaires et annotations. Le présent travail est basé sur des prospections de terrain ciblées, sur une analyse critique de la littérature et des recherches dans les collections muséales et privées. Une espèce de Cerophytidae, 102 espèces d’Elateridae, 14 espèces d’Eucnemidae et 9 espèces de Throscidae sont recensées dans le bassin genevois. 13 espèces insuffisamment documentées (Elateridae) sont à considérer comme douteuses et sont donc répertoriées séparément. Enfin, 9 espèces (8 Elateridae et 1 Throscidae) potentiellement présentes dans le bassin genevois mais pour l’heure non recensées, sont également mentionnées et discutées. Les résultats montrent que du point de vue patrimonial, 44 espèces saproxyliques sont de grande valeur, car rares et/ou exigeantes envers leur habitat.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Checklist Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:30:42 +0200
Distribution of the invasive ambrosia beetle Anisandrus maiche (Coleoptera, Scolytinae) in Switzerland and first record in Europe of its ambrosia fungus Ambrosiella cleistominuta https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/117537/ Alpine Entomology 8: 35-49

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.8.117537

Authors: José P. Ribeiro-Correia, Simone Prospero, Ludwig Beenken, Peter H. W. Biedermann, Simon Blaser, Manuela Branco, Yannick Chittaro, David Frey, Doris Hölling, Sezer Olivia Kaya, Miloš Knížek, Jana Mittelstrass, Beat Ruffner, Andreas Sanchez, Eckehard G. Brockerhoff

Abstract: Ambrosia beetles are highly successful as invaders because they are often transported internationally with wood packaging and other wood products and because their inbreeding mating systems facilitates establishment of invading populations. In 2022, two independent insect surveys in canton Ticino (southern Switzerland) revealed the widespread occurrence of the invasive ambrosia beetle Anisandrus maiche (Kurentzov, 1941) from southern to central-upper Ticino. This species is native to east Asia and has previously been found as a non-native invasive species in the United States, Canada, western Russia, Ukraine and, in 2021, in northern Italy. Here, we present the results of several trapping studies using different trap types (bottle traps, funnel traps and Polytrap intercept traps) and attractants and a map of the distribution of the species. In total, 715 specimens of A. maiche, all female, were trapped, and the identity of selected individuals was confirmed by morphological and molecular identification based on three mitochondrial and nuclear markers (COI, 28S and CAD). Trap samples from early April to early September 2022 in intervals of two to four weeks showed that flights of A. maiche occurred mainly from June to mid-August. Isolation of fungal associates of A. maiche from beetles trapped alive revealed the presence of four fungal species, including the ambrosia fungus Ambrosiella cleistominuta, the known mutualist of A. maiche. The identity of A. cleistominuta was confirmed by comparing DNA sequences of its nuclear, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene with reference sequences in NCBI and BOLDSYSTEMS. This represents the first record of A. cleistominuta in Europe. Of the other fungal associates isolated from A. maiche in Ticino, Fusarium lateritium is of note as there is a possibility that A. maiche could act as a vector of this plant pathogen. We highlight several research needs that should be addressed to gain insight into the potential impact of these non-native species and to overcome problems with heteroplasmy in COI sequences in studies of invasion and population genetics of ambrosia beetles.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:30:31 +0200
First detection of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma ulmi’ in Switzerland and in Orientus ishidae Matsumura, 1902 https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/115588/ Alpine Entomology 8: 29-34

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.8.115588

Authors: Alan Oggier, Christophe Debonneville, Marco Conedera, Olivier Schumpp, Attilio Rizzoli

Abstract: ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma ulmi’ (Ca. P. ulmi) belongs to the ribosomal subgroup 16SrV-A and is associated with dieback, shoot proliferation and yellows disease on various Ulmus spp. Other plant species, such as Carpinus betulus and Prunus spp. have also been reported infected by the same pathogen. In 2021, in the frame of research activities focused on grapevine’s Flavescence dorée (FD), one specimen of Orientus ishidae - an East Palearctic leafhopper that was identified as an alternative vector of FD phytoplasmas - was found harboring Ca. P. ulmi in southern Switzerland. No phytoplasmas were detected in plant samples taken in the same location. Orientus ishidae has already been reported to be able to acquire diverse phytoplasmas associated with other plant diseases, such as Peach X-disease. This is the first report of Ca. P. ulmi in Switzerland, as well as in O. ishidae. Ca. P. ulmi may potentially be present in the wild compartment of the Swiss Pre-alpine and Alpine range, but no dedicated survey has so far been conducted. In the case of O. ishidae, this finding highlights the broad affinity of such a species for the acquisition of several phytoplasmas. This calls for a further investigation regarding its potential role as a vector on various pathosystems of agronomic importance.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:40:39 +0200
Ants of Kamchatka: checklist, DNA-barcoding and key (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/114185/ Alpine Entomology 8: 19-28

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.8.114185

Authors: Sämi Schär

Abstract: Kamchatka is a remote volcanic peninsula in the sub-arctic Far East of Russia. Its myrmecofauna has been scientifically addressed several times. However, previous species lists are contradictory in part and a modern study seems to be lacking. Based on literature review, I conclude that 12 species and 4 genera (Camponotus, Formica, Leptothorax and Myrmica) of ants may be native to Kamchatka. Of those, 9 were found in the field, 3 having a Holarctic, 3 a trans-Palearctic and 3 an East Palearctic distribution. Most species diversity was found at mid-elevations, in pine shrubs and mixed forests, while deciduous forests and open habitats at lower altitudes were surprisingly species poor. DNA-barcoding was performed for 57 specimens/9 species. Genetic diversity (COI) was low for 8/9 species, with the exception of Leptothorax acervorum, for which all samples were of a different haplotype and 2 haplogroups were identified. For the encountered Holarctic and trans-Palearctic species, closely related haplotypes (<0.7% raw distance) occur in Europe and/or North America. Some Formica ants were morphologically atypical, with workers partially resembling those of F. fusca, while gynes identified as F. lemani. Morphometric analysis and DNA-barcoding suggested that all these specimens belong to a single species, F. lemani. Standard images for all specimens and an illustrated key to the worker caste are provided.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 19 Jan 2024 10:13:45 +0200
Annotated checklist of the Swiss bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Anthophila): hotspots of diversity in the xeric inner Alpine valleys https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/112514/ Alpine Entomology 7: 219-267

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.112514

Authors: Christophe Praz, Andreas Müller, Dimitri Bénon, Mike Herrmann, Rainer Neumeyer

Abstract: We present a checklist of the Swiss bees and provide information on the distribution of every bee species in all 26 Swiss cantons. 632 species are reported, including the European honeybee Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 and the exotic species Megachile sculpturalis Smith, 1853. Species richness in each canton was correlated with the canton area, with the four largest cantons hosting the highest number of species. Bee diversity hotspots were located in some Alpine inner valleys characterized by a dry and warm climate due to the rain shadow effects of surrounding mountains. These hotspots are mostly located in the steppe-like habitats of the Valais and Graubünden cantons. They host diverse wild bee communities which include a unique assemblage of submediterranean faunal elements and subalpine species. In addition, these habitats host rare species with strongly disjunct distributions in Europe, further stressing the conservation priority of these habitats for wild bee conservation. Intensive faunistic surveys performed in the last 20 years have revealed that about 20 bee species, either previously unknown for Switzerland or which had disappeared from the country for several decades, have colonised areas close to the borders of France and Italy. Most of these new or reappeared species were observed in the warmest area of the country and presumably colonized or recolonized the country from neighbouring regions following global warming. Lastly, DNA barcodes are presented for 394 specimens, including for many species so far not represented in the BOLD database. The taxonomic status of numerous unclear taxa is briefly discussed based on combined genetic and morphological analyses.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 10 Nov 2023 14:17:09 +0200
Zu Biologie und Identität von Donus proximus (Capiomont, 1876) comb. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Hyperinae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/109422/ Alpine Entomology 7: 213-217

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.109422

Authors: Christoph Germann

Abstract: Anlässlich einer Exkursion in die Gebirgszüge im Norden Portugals konnten Imagines und Larven der wenig bekannten Donus-Art vom Doldenblütigen Heidekraut (Erica umbellata L.) auf submontaner Lage gesammelt werden. Bisher waren Heidekrautgewächse (Ericaceae) als Wirtspflanzen für Hyperinae gänzlich unbekannt. Eine durchgeführte Zucht bestätigte diese Wirtspflanzenbindung. Die nomenklatorische Änderung Donus proximus (Capiomont, 1876), comb. nov. von Brachypera wird eingeführt, Imago, Larve und der Kokon werden vorgestellt, und das Habitat wird charakterisiert.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Thu, 9 Nov 2023 16:18:05 +0200
Planning insect surveys in alpine ecosystems https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/110958/ Alpine Entomology 7: 201-204

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.110958

Authors: Jérôme Pellet

Abstract: Most biological survey programs rely on multi-species inventories (e.g. birds, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies). These programs usually rely on multiple visits during pre-defined time windows. The implicit goal of this popular approach is to maximize the observed species richness. Here, we present a novel method to optimize the timing of survey windows using a framework maximizing the detectable species pool. We present a proof of concept using 20 years of entomological records in Switzerland using butterflies, dragonflies, and grasshoppers. The general framework presented can potentially be applied to a wide range of biological survey schemes. It offers a new practical tool for adaptive entomological monitoring under climate change.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Mon, 30 Oct 2023 07:58:29 +0200
Anchonidium selvanum sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Molytinae) from northern Portugal https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/111490/ Alpine Entomology 7: 195-200

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.111490

Authors: Christoph Germann, Carlo Braunert

Abstract: The fourth species of Anchonidium sensu stricto from Western Europe is described, photographed and compared with its congeners; an updated key of the genus is given. The habitat in the northern mountain chains in Portugal in the native Quercus mountain forests is characterized and illustrated.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 24 Oct 2023 18:19:21 +0300
Micro-endemism pattern and Wolbachia infection of Quedius obliqueseriatus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae), a montane rove beetle endemic of the North-Western Caucasus https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/111214/ Alpine Entomology 7: 153-166

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.111214

Authors: Angesom Gebremeskel, Maria Salnitska, Valeria Krivosheeva, Alexey Solodovnikov

Abstract: We conducted an integrative taxonomic study of a forest floor dwelling montane rove beetle Quedius obliqueseriatus Eppelsheim, 1889. It is one of many endemic species of the North-Western Caucasus, a region considered a global biodiversity hotspot. Examination of the morphological characters in 93 specimens of Q. obliqueseriatus and phylogenetic assessment of the COI barcode for 28 of them, revealed that this species in fact consists of two distinct (p-distance of 4.0%) allopatric lineages, western and eastern. They subtly differ in the structure of the aedeagus, which was not noticed in the previous revision of this species. Nuclear DNA markers (H3, ITS1, ITS2, Wg and 28S) sampled in both lineages, did not show any divergence. Variation of the non-genitalic morphological characters, such as body size or coloration, is continuous across both lineages. Discovery of microendemic lineages within an endemic rove beetle species highlights how little is understood about the patterns and drivers of endemism in arthropods of the North-Western Caucasus. We refrained from the description of a new species due to shortage of data from the area where newly discovered western and eastern lineages meet. As Q. obliqueseriatus was found to be largely infected with Wolbachia, we gave a review of this infection among insects and other arthropods and its impact on speciation. Finally, we described our method of removal of the Wolbachia COI amplicon by endonuclease restriction enzyme in order to get the desired beetle amplicon from infected specimens.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 5 Oct 2023 19:28:25 +0300
First report of Cloeon vanharteni Gattolliat & Sartori, 2008 (Baetidae, Ephemeroptera) in the Maghreb https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/109562/ Alpine Entomology 7: 143-152

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.109562

Authors: Mokhtar Benlasri, Laurent Vuataz, Jean-Luc Gattolliat, Arne J. Beermann, Heribert Leßner, Majida El Alami El Moutaouakil, Mohamed Ghamizi, Elisabeth Berger

Abstract: Cloeon vanharteni Gattolliat & Sartori, 2008 was newly discovered in the framework of our study of Ephemeroptera in the Draa basin, located in the southern region of the High Atlas in Morocco. This discovery is rather unexpected as the species was never reported outside the Arabian Peninsula and Levant; it is thus the first record for the Maghreb. The identification was based on morphological evidence and confirmed by the mitochondrial COI barcode.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:25:21 +0300
A review of the Chrysolina species – subgenus Stichoptera Motschulsky, 1860 – in Switzerland, with notes on distribution, conservation and preimaginal stages (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/105937/ Alpine Entomology 7: 69-82

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.105937

Authors: Christoph Germann, Michael Geiser, Matthias Borer

Abstract: The species of the subgenus Stichoptera occurring in Switzerland are revised, based on a combination of literature data, old museum specimens and recent material. Four species, one with two subspecies, Chrysolina kuesteri (Helliesen, 1912), Ch. latecincta latecincta (Demaison, 1896), Ch. latecincta norica (Holdhaus, 1914), Ch. rossia (Illiger, 1802) and Ch. sanguinolenta (Linnaeus, 1758) are confirmed to occur in Switzerland, while Ch. gypsophilae (Küster, 1845) has to be excluded from the Swiss fauna due to insufficient evidence. Errors and unclarities in the older literature are discussed. Ch. kuesteri was found abundantly in central Valais, allowing some notes on its larval biology. Larvae of the alpine Ch. latecincta are also illustrated, along with notes on its habitat and some past and present distribution records. Illustrations for all Swiss members of the subgenus, as well as distribution maps with all confirmed records, are provided.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 7 Jul 2023 17:23:19 +0300
Laufkäfer und ihre Habitatpräferenzen entlang eines Höhentransekts von 2100 bis 2500 m ü. M. oberhalb der Alp Flix in den Schweizer Alpen (Coleoptera, Carabidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/102534/ Alpine Entomology 7: 57-62

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.102534

Authors: Marie Lüdeke, Christoph Germann, Matthias Jentzsch

Abstract: Während einer Saison im Jahr 2020 wurden in den östlichen Zentralalpen der Schweiz im Gebiet Sur, Alp Flix, bodenlebende Makroarthropoden mittels Barberfallen erfasst. Hauptziel war es, entlang eines ausgewählten Höhentransekts von 2100 bis 2500 m ü. M. die vorhandene Biodiversität zu erfassen. Entlang des Bergbaches Ava dallas Tigias wurden von Juni – November 2020 an sieben Standorten je drei Barberfallen aufgestellt und durchgehend betrieben. Vorliegend werden die Carabidae vorgestellt. Durch Berechnungen von Ähnlichkeitindices wurden deren Habitate innerhalb des untersuchten Höhentransekts abgegrenzt. Es konnten 393 Laufkäferindividuen aus 21 Arten erfasst und bestimmt werden. Sieben Arten wurden erstmals für die Alp Flix nachgewiesen. Davon sind die seltene Amara nigricornis und Leistus montanus rhaeticus besonders hervorzuheben. Aus den Berechnungen konnten drei Habitate der Laufkäfer im Transekt unterschieden werden: subalpines Grünerlengebüsch mit halbschattiger und mäßig feucht-frischer Ausprägung; alpines Habitat mit starker Krautschicht und frischer bis trockener Ausprägung und ein kurzrasiger hochalpiner Lebensraum mit xerothermer Ausprägung.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 16 Jun 2023 14:54:00 +0300
Three alien bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) new to Switzerland https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/103269/ Alpine Entomology 7: 45-55

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.103269

Authors: Andreas Sanchez, Yannick Chittaro, David Frey, Bärbel Koch, Doris Hölling, Eckehard G. Brockerhoff, Beat Ruffner, Miloš Knížek

Abstract: Identifying alien species is important to ensure the early detection of biological invasions and survey shifts in species distributions in the context of global change. Here, we report on three alien bark and ambrosia beetles newly detected in Switzerland: Cyclorhipidion distinguendum (Eggers, 1930), C. pelliculosum (Eichhoff, 1878), and Hypothenemus eruditus (Westwood, 1834). These species were recorded for the first time during a comprehensive survey of saproxylic beetles accross major forest types and along an altitudinal gradient during the entire growing season in the southern Alps, in the canton of Ticino. Their local abundance and number of occurrences accross different lowland forest habitats, including alluvial forests of national importance, indicates that all three species are already naturalized. Given their polyphagy, it is likely that all three species will become more extensively distributed across Switzerland, with a yet unknown environmental impact.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 19 May 2023 15:26:46 +0300
The hidden diet – examination of crop content reveals distinct patterns of pollen host use by Central European bees of the genus Hylaeus (Hymenoptera, Colletidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/102639/ Alpine Entomology 7: 21-35

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.7.102639

Authors: Andreas Müller

Abstract: Masked or yellow-faced bees of the genus Hylaeus (Colletidae) differ in their mode of pollen transportation from most other bees in that they ingest the pollen directly on the flowers and carry it back to the nest inside the crop located in the anterior half of the metasoma. Due to this hidden mode of pollen transportation, the examination of pollen collected by Hylaeus females requires the dissection of the metasoma. Although this method has never been applied in Europe, the great majority of the Central European Hylaeus species were supposed to be pollen generalists based on observations of flower visits. The microscopical analysis of pollen removed from 30 crops each of 36 Central European Hylaeus species revealed that the proportion of species exhibiting an exclusive or strong preference for pollen from a single plant taxon is much higher than hitherto assumed and that the current assumption of the genus Hylaeus to largely consist of pollen generalists is wrong. Nineteen of the 36 species examined are strictly or largely dependent on a single plant taxon for collecting pollen, such as Apiaceae (n = 11 species), Rosaceae (n = 3), Reseda (Resedaceae) (n = 2), Allium (Amaryllidaceae) (n = 1), Asteraceae (n = 1) and Melilotus (Fabaceae) (n = 1). The 36 Hylaeus species examined collected pollen from the flowers of 31 plant families, of which the Apiaceae and Rosaceae (particularly Potentilla and Rubus) were by far the most important contributing almost 60% to the pollen host spectrum of the entire genus. The comparison between pollen host spectrum and flower visiting records showed that the pollen generalists use the flowers of the Asteraceae as nectar rather than pollen sources, corroborating earlier findings that the digestion of Asteraceae pollen requires physiological adaptations to cope with its unfavourable or protective properties. In summary, the patterns of pollen host use by bees of the genus Hylaeus do not substantially differ from those of other Palaearctic bee taxa despite the masked bees’ unusual habit to ingest the pollen directly on the flowers and to transport it inside their body back to the nest.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 20 Apr 2023 16:32:39 +0300
Protokoll der Jahresversammlung der Schweizerischen Entomologischen Gesellschaft vom 20. und 21. Mai 2022 am Museo cantonale di storia naturale Lugano https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/97379/ Alpine Entomology 6: 155-158

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.97379

Authors: Marc Neumann

Abstract: -

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Meeting Report Tue, 6 Dec 2022 15:05:07 +0200
A double defensive mutualism? A case between plants, extrafloral nectaries, and trophobionts https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/94633/ Alpine Entomology 6: 129-131

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.94633

Authors: Cássio Cardoso Pereira, Geraldo Wilson Fernandes, Tatiana Cornelissen

Abstract: Not applicable

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
News Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:28:06 +0200
Sudden collapse of xylophilous bee populations in the mountains of northern Utah (USA): An historical illustration https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/93676/ Alpine Entomology 6: 77-82

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.93676

Authors: Vincent J. Tepedino, Frank D. Parker

Abstract: A scarcity of studies of the dynamics of wild bee populations hampers conservation efforts by bee ecologists and conservationists. Present limited information suggests that bee populations are highly unpredictable from year-to-year. Here we present an historical data set from nine sites replicated in 1984 and 1985 that demonstrates extreme between-year variability in numbers for 19 xylophilous bee species. Sixteen of those species produced far fewer nests in 1985, and 13 species in 1985 produced less than a third the number of nests produced in 1984. We argue that the 1985 collapse was not due to semivoltinism, i.e., the absence of morphs that require two years to mature, or to excessive sampling in 1984, but to a record cold period from January to March 1985 which likely killed most diapausing bees. Such events illustrate the dynamism of wild bee populations and thereby the large number of years needed to establish statistically significant population trends. We suggest that the current emphasis by bee conservationists to promote widespread surveillance monitoring programs is misguided and that funds are more effectively spent on hypothesis-driven targeted monitoring and on actions to actually reclaim degraded wild bee habitat.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:27:51 +0200
Der Fremdling im Therapiegarten – Cis chinensis (Coleoptera, Ciidae) und sein Umfeld https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/86494/ Alpine Entomology 6: 83-95

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.86494

Authors: Armin Coray, David A. Marques, Petr Vlček

Abstract: Samples of the tree fungus Antrodia xantha were collected on Pinus strobus in the therapy garden of the UPK campus (University Psychiatric Clinics) in Basel in summer 2021. The samples contained an alien Ciidae species new to Switzerland: Cis chinensis Lawrence, 1991, a species otherwise mainly known as a storage pest of commercially dried fungi. The adults and larvae of the Basel population are described and illustrated. When comparing the size of the adults of the two sample series collected two weeks apart, statistically significant differences were found. It appears that the above-average temperatures in June 2021 favoured the size of the second group. A number of (4–)5 larval stages are postulated for larval development. As an endoparasitoid of the eggs of C. chinensis, an unknown Mymaridae of the genus Cleruchus was found. Noteworthy was an unusually heavy infestation of Ciidae by phoretic mites (Histiostomatidae). During follow-up surveys in early 2022, additional individuals of C. chinensis were also found on the fruitbodies of other fungi growing in the immediate vicinity of the site where the population of the species was initially observed on A. xantha. A list of all Ciidae detected on the UPK campus is provided, and the spectrum of host-fungi of C. chinensis is discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:23:26 +0200
Periscelis (Myodris) haennii sp. nov., a new species of Periscelididae (Diptera) from Ticino, Switzerland, with a new key to European species of the subgenus https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/85391/ Alpine Entomology 6: 39-49

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.85391

Authors: Lucia Pollini Paltrinieri, Jindřich Roháček

Abstract: A new Periscelididae species, Periscelis (Myodris) haennii sp. nov., is described from Losone near Locarno, Canton Ticino (Southern Switzerland). It has been found during a biodiversity survey using attractant traps in a Querco-Castagnetum forest. This new species is closely related and very similar to P. (M.) annulata (Fallén, 1813) occurring syntopically in the same traps. Interestingly, also P. (M.) piricercus Carles-Tolrá & Verdugo Páez, 2009 co-occurred with these species; consequently, all European species of the subgenus Myodris Lioy, 1864 were found in this locality. A new illustrated key to males of these species is presented. The DNA sequences of the barcoding region of COI for all these species are given.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:37:16 +0300
Modeling the distribution of coprophagous beetle species in the Western Swiss Alps https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/83730/ Alpine Entomology 6: 25-38

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.83730

Authors: Vivien Cosandey, Olivier Broennimann, Antoine Guisan

Abstract: Coprophagous beetles are essential for fecal matter removal and are thus considered key ecosystem services providers. Yet, our knowledge of these beetles’ distribution and ecology remains very limited. Here, we used Species Distribution Models (SDM) to investigate the species-environment relationships (i.e. their niche) and predict the geographic distribution of coprophagous beetles in the Western Swiss Alps. We used our own sampled data and existing national data from the Swiss faunal database to calibrate, for each species, a regional and a national SDM respectively. In both models, the best predictors were temperature and rock cover proportion, while a soil characteristic (∂13C) indicating its organic content and texture was important in the regional models and precipitations in the Swiss models. The model performed better for species specialized on low or high altitudes than for generalist species occurring in a large altitudinal range. The model performances were neither influenced by the size, nor by the nesting behavior (laying eggs inside or below the excrements) of the species. We also showed that species richness decreased with altitude. This study opens new perspective for a better knowledge of coprophagous beetle’s ecology and a useful tool for their conservation in mountain regions.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 6 Jul 2022 16:35:53 +0300
Lack of genetic structure suggests high connectivity of Parnassius phoebus between nearby valleys in the Alps https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/80405/ Alpine Entomology 6: 1-6

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.6.80405

Authors: Andreas Jaun, Hans-Peter Wymann, Kay Lucek

Abstract: The spatial scale of intraspecific genetic connectivity and population structure are important aspects of conservation genetics. However, for many species these properties are unknown. Here we used genomic data to assess the genetic structure of the small Apollo butterfly (Parnassius phoebus Fabricius, 1793; Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) across three nearby valleys in the Central Swiss Alps. One of the valleys is currently used for hydropower production with future plans to raise the existing dam wall further. We found no significant genetic structure, suggesting a currently high connectivity of this species in our studied region.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Thu, 24 Mar 2022 10:11:04 +0200
Energetic underpinnings of yellow dung fly mating success in the field https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/68153/ Alpine Entomology 5: 61-67

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.5.68153

Authors: Wolf U. Blanckenhorn

Abstract: Foraging provides the basis for animal reproduction, but requires energy and time to be sustained, entailing a trade-off. Whereas females should maximize their time foraging for resources, males should minimize their foraging time by optimizing time budgets to maximize their access to mating partners. Mark-resight field studies are difficult and hence uncommon for small insects. Yellow dung flies (Scathophaga stercoraria L.) abound on pastures in cold-temperate regions across the northern hemisphere. Adult flies lick nectar from flowers for energy, but require small insect prey to produce eggs and sperm. Males wait for females around fresh cow dung, but at one point also need to replenish their energy and/or sperm reserves in the surrounding vegetation. Their foraging time budgets should depend on their body size, nutritional energy reserves, availability of sperm, competitor and female density. Marked male dung flies whose nutritional status was experimentally manipulated – water only (null control); water + sugar (energy replenishment); or water, sugar + Drosophila prey (energy and sperm replenishment) – were repeatedly observed on an experimental pasture for an entire day. Both nutrient types were expected to increase the mating success of especially large males. The total number of resighted males seen copulating was lowest for water-treated flies. Mating success was positively related to body size. The distance travelled between dung pats was greater for males fed sugar or prey and also increased with body size, while pat residence times decreased with size. No differences were found between the sugar- and prey-fed groups. Crucially however, there was no evidence in the field for a time budget or mating advantage of small males when nutrients were limited.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 22 Jul 2021 13:26:32 +0300
Rediscovery of Stactobia eatoniella McLachlan, 1880 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) in Switzerland after more than seventy years https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/67985/ Alpine Entomology 5: 55-60

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.5.67985

Authors: Laurent Vuataz, Pascal Stucki, Lucie Fauquet, Régine Bernard

Abstract: A specimen of Stactobia eatoniella, a hygropetric species of micro-caddisfly considered extinct in Switzerland, was discovered in the Morge in Valais in March 2020 during routine monitoring. This last instar larva in perfect condition is the first to be observed in Switzerland since 1944. Further research in the study area is needed to confirm the presence of a possible well-established population. This encouraging discovery should not hide the fact that two thirds of the micro-caddisfly species are on the Red List of threatened species of Switzerland, and that hygropetric habitats are both under-studied and highly endangered in Switzerland and worldwide.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Wed, 7 Jul 2021 12:02:19 +0300
First observation of an ant colony of Formica fuscocinerea Forel, 1874 invaded by the social parasite F. truncorum Fabricius, 1804 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/67037/ Alpine Entomology 5: 23-26

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.5.67037

Authors: Rainer Neumeyer, Jürg Sommerhalder, Stefan Ungricht

Abstract: In the northern Alps of Switzerland we observed a mixed ant colony of Formica truncorum Fabricius, 1804 and F. fuscocinerea Forel, 1874 at the foot of a schoolhouse wall in the built-up centre of the small town of Näfels (canton of Glarus). Based on the fact that the habitat is favorable only for F. fuscocinerea and that F. truncorum is a notorious temporary social parasite, we conclude that in this case a colony of F. fuscocinerea must have been usurped by F. truncorum. This is remarkable, as it is the first reported case where a colony of F. fuscocinerea has been taken over by a social parasite. We consider the observed unusually small workers of F. truncorum to be a starvation form. This is probably due to the suboptimal urban nest site, as this species typically occurs along the edge of forests or in clearings.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Wed, 2 Jun 2021 10:08:25 +0300
Two males, one female: triplet-style mating behaviour in the Darwin wasp Xorides ater (Gravenhorst, 1829) (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Xoridinae) in the Swiss Alps https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/64803/ Alpine Entomology 5: 15-22

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.5.64803

Authors: Mark R. Shaw, Madalene Giannotta, Andrés F. Herrera-Flórez, Seraina Klopfstein

Abstract: The Darwin wasp Xorides ater is a solitary idiobiont ectoparasitoid of wood-boring beetle larvae. It occurs across the Palaearctic, and in Switzerland seems to be restricted to areas above 980 m altitude. Very little is known about its biology and behaviour. We here report three separate instances of a female X. ater mating simultaneously with two males, observed on the same occasion on a Picea abies woodpile near Lenk, Switzerland. Only two copulae that involved one male and one female were observed at the same time, which might indicate that this mating mode is rather common in X. ater. We illustrate our observations with photo and video material and compare it to mating behaviour known from other species of Darwin wasps.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Fri, 21 May 2021 11:37:36 +0300
Hypera temperei Hoffmann, 1958 – first discovery of the western alpine element in the Swiss Alps with biological details, and new morphological insights (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/61597/ Alpine Entomology 5: 5-13

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.5.61597

Authors: Christoph Germann

Abstract: Since its description based on a single female from the Maritime Alps in France, no other localities of this enigmatic alpine species have become public. In a scree slope in the Valais at high montane altitude Hypera temperei Hoffmann, 1958 was discovered for the first time elsewhere, in Switzerland. The species’ biology is unravelled, its habitat is described, and photographs of the male, larvae and pupa are presented. The re-investigation of the species morphology revealed that Hypera temperei is closest to H. postica (Gyllenhal, 1813), and not to H. viciae (Gyllenhal, 1813) as previously supposed. A revision of specimens in collections revealed that H. temperei is distributed even more eastern in the alpine Arc in Grisons at high montane to high alpine altitudes. Hence the species shows a considerably wider distribution in the Alps than supposed before.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 9 Mar 2021 17:54:01 +0200
Tracking the spread of the northern bark beetle (Ips duplicatus [Sahlb.]) in Europe and first records from Switzerland and Liechtenstein https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/53808/ Alpine Entomology 4: 179-184

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.53808

Authors: Beat Wermelinger, Doris Schneider Mathis, Miloš Knížek, Beat Forster

Abstract: The northern bark beetle (Ips duplicatus), in Europe originally restricted to northern countries, expanded its distribution range to eastern Europe in the 20th century and is now causing considerable damage in spruce forests. In the past decades its presence has been confirmed in several Central European countries. By means of pheromone traps and visual inspection of infested logs, in this study we demonstrate that I. duplicatus is also present in the Rhine valley in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Breeding galleries with beetles and exit holes in an infested spruce log indicate that the trapped beetles had successfully developed in a local stand nearby. An inquiry addressed to European entomologists was carried out to obtain information and references concerning the year of the first record or mention of I. duplicatus in their respective countries. This information substantiated the expansion of its historical range to the southeast in the middle of the last century and clearly showed recent movement westward, with Switzerland and Germany currently the westernmost countries where this species occurs. This recent range expansion is likely attributed to the transport of infested timber. The economic significance of this expanding bark beetle species is discussed in view of its co-occurrence with the notorious pest species I. typographus.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 2 Sep 2020 08:26:02 +0300
Unique nesting biology of Osmia ( Melanosmia) uncinata, a Palaearctic osmiine bee specialized on thick-barked conifers (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/53489/ Alpine Entomology 4: 157-171

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.53489

Authors: Andreas Müller, Rainer Prosi, Stewart Taylor, Henning Richter, Mike Herrmann, Urs Weibel

Abstract: Osmia (Melanosmia) uncinata Gerstäcker is a Palaearctic megachilid bee distributed from temperate and northern Europe eastwards to the Russian Far East. The discovery of over 80 nests in Switzerland, southern Germany and Scotland enabled for the first time a closer investigation of its nesting biology and prompted the assessment of the species’ phenology, distribution and habitat. O. uncinata nested in self-excavated burrows inside the bark of both living trunks and dead stumps of Pinus sylvestris. The nests were excavated at a height of 10–220 cm above ground either on the underside of prominences of longitudinal bark ribs or inside beetle borings and extended more or less vertically upwards. They consisted of a single straight to slightly curved burrow with rarely one to three side burrows, had a total length of 1.2–12.0 cm and contained 1–6 brood cells. The brood cells, which faced downwards with the larval provisions being located in the upper cell half, were separated from each other by one-layered walls of chewed leaves (“leaf pulp”). The nests were sealed with a plug of 2–4 closely adjacent walls of leaf pulp. DNA metabarcoding of cell and plug walls revealed that Potentilla and Fragaria (Rosaceae) served as leaf pulp sources. Pre-imaginal mortality amounted to 77%, partly caused by brood parasites such as Sapyga similis (Sapygidae) and Cacoxenus indagator (Drosophilidae) or predators such as snakeflies (Raphidioptera). At low elevations, O. uncinata needs one year for its development and overwinters as imago inside the nest, whereas in the subalpine zone of the Alps it has a two-year cycle passing the first winter as prepupa and the second winter as imago. O. uncinata starts to emerge between the end of March at low elevations and the end of May at higher elevations qualifying as an early flying bee like the other European O. (Melanosmia) species. The distribution of O. uncinata in Central Europe and Scotland largely coincides with the occurrence of P. sylvestris. As in the pine, it extends over a wide altitudinal range from below 100 m up to 1900 m a.s.l. and encompasses dry and wet as well as warm and cold habitats including open pine forests, inner and outer forest edges dominated by pine and isolated pine groups. At a few locations in the subalpine zone of the Alps, O. uncinata occurs in the absence of P. sylvestris; here, the thick bark of Larix decidua serves as a substitute nesting substrate.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 30 Jul 2020 13:08:51 +0300
First record of Erasmoneura vulnerata Fitch, 1851 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) in Switzerland https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/53967/ Alpine Entomology 4: 151-156

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.53967

Authors: Attilio Rizzoli, Riccardo Battelli, Marco Conedera, Mauro Jermini

Abstract: The first record of Erasmoneura vulnerata Fitch, 1851 in Switzerland is reported. Specimens were collected in 2019 using yellow sticky traps during a Scaphoideus titanus monitoring campaign in vineyards in Ticino (Southern Switzerland). E. vulnerata is a grapevine pest that has recently been introduced to Europe, whose phytophagy causes detrimental damage to grapevine leaves. Its occurrence in this area has likely been favored by the ongoing suspension of insecticide treatments for the control of the S. titanus population, the vector agent of the “Flavescence dorée” phytoplasma in grapevines.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Tue, 14 Jul 2020 13:14:36 +0300
Owlflies from Jordan (Neuroptera, Ascalaphidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/50696/ Alpine Entomology 4: 139-150

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.50696

Authors: Christian Monnerat, Levente Ábrahám

Abstract: The authors publish faunistic data on 48 owlfly specimens from Jordan, where only two species were known in the past. Four species (Ascalaphus festivus, Deleproctophylla variegata, Iranoidricerus cf. iranensis, Stylascalaphus krueperi) are new records for Jordan and the two previously recorded species (Bubopsis andromache, Bubopsis hamata) are confirmed. We present an annotated bibliography, the global distribution and information on the life history of each six species. The material reviewed in three collections also provides the first mention of Deleproctophylla variegata for Afghanistan.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 1 Jul 2020 11:23:34 +0300
Rétablissement des communautés de libellules (Odonata) dans les tourbières du Jura neuchâtelois (Suisse) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/36290/ Alpine Entomology 4: 99-116

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.36290

Authors: Arnaud Vallat, Christian Monnerat, Sébastien Tschanz-Godio, Laurent Juillerat

Abstract: Les tourbières des Vallées de la Brévine et des Ponts-de-Martel ont perdu plus de 90% de leur surface au 20e siècle suite à l'exploitation industrielle de la tourbe. Les travaux de revitalisation entrepris entre 1996 et 2018 ont permis d'y augmenter le nombre de plans d'eau de 240 à 341, leur surface passant de 1.3 à 10.1 hectares. Dès 2005, les odonates ont fait l'objet de suivis réguliers dans plusieurs marais. En 2017 et 2018, un suivi exhaustif a permis de recenser 38 espèces. L'ensemble des données récoltées entre 1938 et 2018 concerne ainsi 52 espèces, soit plus des 2/3 de la faune de Suisse. Parmi elles, neuf figurent sur la Liste Rouge nationale. Les espèces inféodées aux hauts-marais profitent des mesures de revitalisation et voient leur nombre augmenter depuis 2005. Leucorrhinia pectoralis s'est ainsi implantée de manière spectaculaire dans 12 hauts-marais sur 15, alors que L. albifrons, l'une des libellules les plus rares de Suisse, se reproduit dans une tourbière ayant fait l'objet d'importantes revitalisations. De même, les découvertes d'Aeshna subarctica et de Ceriagrion tenellum laissent présager leur implantation dans la région d'étude. Fort de ce bilan positif, le canton de Neuchâtel prévoit de poursuivre son programme de revitalisations au moins pour les cinq prochaines années. Parallèlement, seule une gestion coordonnée des différents marais visant à garantir une offre variée en habitats permettra le maintien des espèces les plus exigeantes.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 8 Jun 2020 22:44:43 +0300
Création de nouvelles prairies dans le réseau écologique « La Frontière » VD et effets sur les orthoptères (Insecta: Orthoptera) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/46308/ Alpine Entomology 4: 117-128

DOI: 10.3897/alpento..46308

Authors: Stève Breitenmoser, Jean-Yves Humbert, Sylvie Viollier

Abstract: Le réseau écologique Paysage « La Frontière » situé à l’ouest du canton de Vaud est composé de près de 700 surfaces de promotion de la biodiversité (SPB) totalisant plus de 500 ha. Dans ce cadre, plus de 150 ha de nouvelles prairies naturelles, pour la plupart plantées de haies et d’arbres, forment la pièce centrale de l’infrastructure écologique de ce réseau. Elles remplacent des grandes cultures (terres assolées) et ont été mises en place par la méthode de l’enherbement direct (fleurs de foin). Les orthoptères et la mante religieuse (Mantis religiosa) ont été choisis comme bio-indicateurs pour évaluer la richesse spécifique et la vitesse de colonisation de ces nouvelles surfaces. Les relevés orthoptériques ont été effectués, entre 2014 et 2018, sur 33 nouvelles prairies et ont été comparés à 13 prairies naturelles anciennes extensives. En moyenne, le nombre d’espèces par prairie était de 9.3 (dont 1.7 sur la Liste rouge) dans les nouvelles prairies et de 11.5 (2.6) dans les prairies anciennes. Statistiquement, il n’y a aucune différence significative entre les deux types de prairies. Aucune corrélation entre le nombre d’années après la mise en place des nouvelles prairies et le nombre d’espèces recensées par prairie n’a été détectée, indiquant une colonisation rapide des nouvelles prairies. Parmi les espèces d’orthoptères cibles du réseau écologique cantonal, figurant également sur la Liste rouge, six sont présentes dans les prairies anciennes comme dans les nouvelles. Parmi ces dernières, Metrioptera bicolor et Euchorthippus declivus étaient présentes dans près de 60% des prairies. Les résultats montrent l’importance d’une répartition dense de prairies à la fois de bonne qualité (enherbement direct) et exploitée extensivement avec des zones refuges. Ils soulignent également l’importance des prairies anciennes et des aires naturelles protégées comme réservoirs pour la restauration de la biodiversité dans les paysages agricoles.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:16:01 +0300
Nemapogon helveticola sp. nov. aus der Schweiz (Lepidoptera, Tineidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/51727/ Alpine Entomology 4: 73-79

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.51727

Authors: Reinhard Gaedike, Rudolf Bryner

Abstract: Aus der Schweiz wird Nemapogon helveticola als neue Art beschrieben. Dabei handelt es sich um eine taxonomisch isolierte Art, welche bisher nur an einer einzigen Stelle gefunden worden ist. Der Falter und die männlichen Genitalien werden abgebildet.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 20 May 2020 15:04:29 +0300
The first discovery of the genus Pseudoalaocybites Osella, 1980 from Ecuador, with a description of a new species in an alpine ecosystem (Coleoptera, Curculionidae: Molytinae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/49848/ Alpine Entomology 4: 23-27

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.49848

Authors: Christoph Germann

Abstract: Pseudoalaocybites chimborazoi sp. nov. – a new microphthalmic weevil from the Ecuadorian Páramo is described, compared, and the discovery is discussed. The record enlarges the distribution area of the genus considerably to the South, furthermore it is the first record of a Pseudoalaocybites from the Páramo, an Andean ecosystem, which is also known as an evolutionary hot spot.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 18 Mar 2020 15:23:20 +0200
Wildermuth H, Martens A (2018) Die Libellen Europas. Alle Arten von den Azoren bis zum Ural im Porträt https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/49415/ Alpine Entomology 4: 21-22

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.4.49415

Authors: Daniel Küry

Abstract: In order to clarify the identity of Paracacoxenus kaszabi Okada, 1973, a species described from Mongolia, the morphological structures of one male paratype, collected at 1,750 m altitude, were analyzed and redescribed. In addition, one of the male specimens, previously referred to in literature as ‘sp. aff. kaszabi’, is restudied and described as Paracacoxenus macai sp. nov. (type locality: Schmelz, Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio, Province of Bolzano, Region of Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy). The former species seems to be distributed in central and eastern Asia while the latter is supposed to have an exclusively European distribution. The midtibial preapical seta of male Paracacoxenus argyreator (Frey, 1932), which is unusually long, is illustrated by photomicrographs. A key to the European species of Paracacoxenus Hardy, 1960 is presented.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Book Review Fri, 6 Mar 2020 19:58:47 +0200
Revision der Nematopogon adansoniella-Artengruppe mit Beschreibung einer neuen Art aus den Bergregionen Süditaliens (Lepidoptera, Adelidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/33651/ Alpine Entomology 3: 93-104

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.3.33651

Authors: Rudolf Bryner, Peter Huemer

Abstract: Das ursprünglich aus den Südwestalpen beschriebene Taxon Nematopogon adansoniella (de Villers, 1789) wird neu bewertet. Auf Grund von DNA-Barcodeuntersuchungen sowie morphologischen Merkmalen wird Nematopogon prolai Hartig, 1941 aus dem Apennin (Mittelitalien) als eigenständige Art anerkannt und ein Lectotypus wird festgelegt. Als weitere, kryptische Art wird Nematopogon garganellus sp. nov. vom Monte Gargano (Puglia) und aus der Basilicata (Süditalien) neu beschrieben. Die morphologischen und genitalmorphologischen Unterscheidungsmerkmale der drei Arten werden aufgezeigt und, soweit bekannt, Angaben zu Verbreitung, Lebensraum und Bionomie gemacht.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 14 May 2019 15:56:02 +0300
Distribution of a residual population of the Dytiscid Graphoderus bilineatus (de Geer, 1774) in the Grande Cariçaie nature reserves, Switzerland https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/30417/ Alpine Entomology 3: 83-91

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.3.30417

Authors: Aline Knoblauch, Antoine Gander

Abstract: Currently, the distribution of diving beetles in Switzerland is poorly known making it difficult to determine conservation priorities for species with small and/or declining populations. In order to establish conservation priorities, in 2018, we surveyed diving beetles of the genus Graphoderus in the Grande Cariçaie reserves with special consideration for the Red Listed G. bilineatus. While G. bilineatus and G. cinereus showed high habitat niche overlap, the distribution of G. bilineatus was limited to mainly one of the eight reserves. When comparing our results to available historical data, the habitat of G. bilineatus has likely diminished during the last 40 years. Our study provides the first comprehensive documentation of the distribution of Graphoderus species in the Grande Cariçaie. We further highlight the importance for improving the knowledge of G. bilineatus distribution in Switzerland to develop policy for conservation of this globally threatened species.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 18 Apr 2019 16:37:15 +0300
Fire and windthrow in forests: Winners and losers in Neuropterida and Mecoptera https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/30868/ Alpine Entomology 3: 39-50

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.3.30868

Authors: Peter Duelli, Beat Wermelinger, Marco Moretti, Martin К. Obrist

Abstract: The mid-term impact of forest fires and windthrows on species compositions in the insect orders Neuroptera, Raphidioptera and Mecoptera was assessed in Swiss forests using standardized flight interception traps. For 50 species the abundances in intact control plots were compared to those in moderately or strongly disturbed forest stands. The catches were combined over four forest disturbance projects ranging from windthrows in alpine spruce forests and lowland deciduous forests to winter forest fires in Southern Switzerland and a large summer fire in southwestern Switzerland. As a result 82% of the 50 species benefited from the disturbance and became more abundant in the years after the fire or windthrow. More species (19) had their maximum abundance in intermediately disturbed plots than in heavily disturbed forests (17). Only 11 species mainly Hemerobiidae and Coniopterygidae peaked in the undisturbed forest stands. The species are listed per impact and ranked as winners (more than 66% specimens per treatment collected in disturbed forest plots) losers (more than 66% specimens per treatment in undisturbed forest plots) and indifferent species. An additional 29 species that were too scarce for an assessment are listed in Appendix 1. We conclude that for Neuropterida and Mecoptera catastrophic incidences are natural ecological events which create new habitats and by this foster their occurrence and abundance.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 3 Apr 2019 22:50:03 +0300
Hidden diversity in European bees: Andrena amieti sp. n., a new Alpine bee species related to Andrena bicolor (Fabricius, 1775) (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Andrenidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/29675/ Alpine Entomology 3: 11-38

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.3.29675

Authors: Christophe Praz, Andreas Müller, David Genoud

Abstract: We revise the Alpine bee taxa related to Andrena bicolor (Fabricius, 1775), including A. montana Warncke, 1973 and A. allosa Warncke, 1975, the status of which has remained contentious. Phylogenetic analyses of one mitochondrial gene and one nuclear gene, as well as morphological examination reveal the presence of four Alpine species in this complex, one of which is new to science, A. amieti sp. n. This new species is widely distributed in the Alps from southern France throughout Switzerland, northern Italy and southern Germany to Austria; a single record is known from the Apennines. The type locality is located within the Unesco World Heritage site “Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch”. Two widely divergent mitochondrial lineages are found in sympatry in A. amieti sp. n.; the status of these lineages, which together form a paraphyletic unit from which A. allosa arose, is briefly discussed. We show that A. allosa, A. amieti sp. n. and A. montana are polylectic but that each species exhibits a distinct spectrum of pollen hosts: the univoltine A. allosa shows affinities for pollen of the early-blooming Alpine plant genus Crocus. A. amieti sp. n. is bivoltine and, as in A. bicolor, the summer generation exhibits a distinct preference for Campanulaceae, while the spring generation is widely polylectic. A. montana has a single generation in the summer and forages on a diversity of flowers such as Campanulaceae, Cistaceae and Caryophyllaceae. An identification key is presented for central European members of the subgenus Euandrena Hedicke, 1932. Lastly, the new Alpine species appears to represent the tip of the iceberg of substantial cryptic diversity in southern European Andrena (Euandrena): A. croatica Friese, 1887 is resurrected from synonymy with A. bicolor and treated as a valid species (stat. rev.), A. pileata Warncke, 1875, described as a subspecies of A. allosa, is elevated to species rank (stat. n.), and three additional unclear taxa are briefly described.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 21 Jan 2019 12:36:24 +0200
Temporal niche partitioning of Swiss black scavenger flies in relation to season and substrate age (Diptera, Sepsidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/28366/ Alpine Entomology 3: 1-10

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.3.28366

Authors: Patrick T. Rohner, Jean-Paul Haenni, Athene Giesen, Juan Pablo Busso, Martin A. Schäfer, Frank Püchel-Wieling, Wolf U. Blanckenhorn

Abstract: Understanding why and how multiple species manage to coexist represents a primary goal of ecological and evolutionary research. This is of particular relevance for communities that depend on resource rich ephemeral habitats that are prone to high intra- and interspecific competition. Black scavenger flies (Diptera: Sepsidae) are common and abundant acalyptrate flies associated with livestock dung decomposition in human-influenced agricultural grasslands worldwide. Several widespread sepsid species with apparently very similar ecological niches coexist in Europe, but despite their ecological role and their use in evolutionary ecological research, our understanding of their ecological niches and spatio-temporal distribution is still rudimentary. To gain a better understanding of their ecology, we here investigate niche partitioning at two temporal scales. First, we monitored the seasonal occurrence, often related to thermal preference, over multiple years and sites in Switzerland that differ in altitude. Secondly, we also investigate fine-scale temporal succession on dairy cow pastures. In accordance with their altitudinal and latitudinal distribution in Europe, some species were common over the entire season with a peak in summer, hence classified as warm-loving, whereas others were primarily present in spring or autumn. Phenological differences thus likely contribute to species coexistence throughout the season. However, the community also showed pronounced species turnover related to cow pat age. Some species colonize particularly fresh dung and are gradually replaced by others. Furthermore, the correlation between co-occurrence and phylogenetic distance of species revealed significant under-dispersion, indicating that more closely related species are frequently recovered at the same location. As a whole, our data suggests temporal niche differentiation of closely related species that likely facilitates the rather high species diversity on Swiss cattle pastures. The underlying mechanisms allowing close relatives to co-occur however require further scrutiny.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 7 Jan 2019 10:38:41 +0200
Protokoll der Jahresversammlung der Schweizerischen Entomologischen Gesellschaft vom 2. und 3. März 2018 am Naturhistorischen Museum der Burgergemeinde Bern https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/31585/ Alpine Entomology 2: 155-159

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.31585

Authors: Matthias Borer

Abstract: not available

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Meeting Report Tue, 20 Nov 2018 22:53:50 +0200
Rheinheimer J, Hassler M (2018) Die Blattkäfer Baden-Württembergs https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/26958/ Alpine Entomology 2: 149-150

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.26958

Authors: Christoph Germann

Abstract: Rheinheimer J, Hassler M (2018) Die Blattkäfer Baden-Württembergs

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Book Review Tue, 20 Nov 2018 11:03:00 +0200
Dual function of Potentilla (Rosaceae) in the life history of the rare boreoalpine osmiine bee Hoplitis (Formicapis) robusta (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/30158/ Alpine Entomology 2: 139-147

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.30158

Authors: Andreas Müller, Henning Richter

Abstract: Hoplitis robusta (Nylander) is a rare and poorly known osmiine bee species occurring in the subalpine zone of the Alps. The discovery of two nests of H. robusta in a thin branch of a dead fallen spruce on a sunny clearing of a subalpine spruce forest allowed the investigation of the nest architecture, the analysis of the larval diet and the assessment of the nest building material. X-raying, computed tomography and subsequent dissection of the nest branch revealed that the nests were built in L-shaped pupation tunnels of cerambycid beetles, which were probably cleaned from wood debris by the female bees with the aid of their large and powerful mandibles after nest site selection. The two nests contained five and six linearly arranged brood cells separated from each other by thin partitions built from masticated green leaves (“leaf pulp”). They were sealed at their opening by a thick plug consisting of several successive layers of leaf pulp constructed immediately behind each other. Microscopical analysis of the larval provisions of eight brood cells and of 41 pollen loads of females from museum and private collections showed that H. robusta exhibits a strong preference for the pollen of Potentilla (Rosaceae). Based on field observations, DNA metabarcoding of one nest plug and stereomicroscopic analysis of the leaf pulp matrix, Potentilla was also identified as an important source for the leaf pulp needed for nest construction, rendering H. robusta one of the few bee species known to collect floral resources and nest building material from the very same plant.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:23:01 +0200
Pollen host selection by predominantly alpine bee species of the genera Andrena, Panurginus, Dufourea, Megachile, Hoplitis and Osmia (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/29250/ Alpine Entomology 2: 101-113

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.29250

Authors: Andreas Müller

Abstract: The pollen host selection by 19 bee species, which have their main Central European distribution in the Alps, was assessed by microscopical analysis of the scopal contents of about 900 females from museum and private collections. The results of the pollen analyses were complemented by a literature survey as well as by field observations. The examined species widely vary in pollen host spectrum and specialization, revealing a fascinating diversity in bee host plant use. Observed patterns of host plant choice range from narrow specialists, which exclusively collect pollen from the flowers of a single plant genus, to pronounced generalists, which harvest pollen from the flowers of up to 17 different plant families. A quantitative character is given to separate the morphologically very similar females of Panurginus herzi and P. montanus.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 22 Oct 2018 09:26:59 +0300
Heuschrecken (Orthoptera) in Biodiversitätsförderflächen der voralpinen Kulturlandschaft Schönenbergs (Schweiz, Kanton Zürich) mit Trends seit 1990 https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/26246/ Alpine Entomology 2: 77-100

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.26246

Authors: Jürg Schlegel, Stefan Schnetzler

Abstract: Unsere Untersuchungen in der voralpinen Kulturlandschaft Schönenbergs (Schweiz, Kanton Zürich) haben ergeben, dass die Biodiversitätsförderflächen-Typen Streuefläche, Extensivweide und Extensivwiese im Vergleich zu konventionell bewirtschafteten Fettwiesen einen stark positiven Effekt auf die Diversität und Individuendichte von Heuschrecken ausüben. Innerhalb der Biodiversitätsförderflächen wiesen Heuschrecken in Streueflächen wiederum signifikant höhere Diversitätswerte und Individuendichten auf als in Extensivwiesen und Extensivweiden. Sie beherbergten zudem fast 95% aller beobachteten Individuen der Heuschrecken der Roten Liste. Innerhalb der Streueflächen war in Pfeifengraswiesen und Hochstaudenfluren eine signifikant höhere Heuschreckendiversität zu verzeichnen als in Kleinseggenrieden, Grossseggenrieden und verschilften Teilflächen. Die Individuendichten in Pfeifengraswiesen und Hochstaudenfluren erwiesen sich im Vergleich zu Grossseggenrieden als signifikant höher. Im Vergleich zu früheren Erhebungen in Schönenberg ZH aus den Jahren 1990 und 2000 veränderte sich die Heuschreckendiversität in den Fettwiesen 2016 nicht signifikant, jedoch zeigten sich auf Artebene deutliche Verschiebungen der relativen Häufigkeiten. So kam die eher trockenheitsliebende Art Chorthippus biguttulus in den Fettwiesen 2016 bedeutend häufiger vor als 1990 und 2000, während die in der Region eher feuchtigkeitsliebende Art Chorthippus dorsatus einen gegenteiligen Trend aufwies. Die 1990 und 2000 noch nicht beobachtete Art Chorthippus albomarginatus fand sich 2016 in einigen Fettwiesen, welche zu den östlichsten Fundorten im Voralpenraum gehören. In den Streueflächen wurde 2016 eine signifikant höhere Heuschreckendiversität als 1990 festgestellt. Die in der Schweiz gefährdete Art Conocephalus fuscus erlitt seit 1990 massive Einbussen, dafür nahmen andere Arten in ihrer relativen Häufigkeit markant zu, z.B. die potenziell gefährdeten Arten Chrysochraon dispar und Decticus verrucivorus. Zusätzliche Massnahmen zur Heuschreckenförderung werden erörtert, mit Schwerpunkt auf der asynchronen Nutzung, schonenden Mähtechniken sowie räumlich und zeitlich wechselnden Altgrasinseln.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 26 Jul 2018 09:55:15 +0300
An Alpine Malaise trap https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/24800/ Alpine Entomology 2: 51-58

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.24800

Authors: Shasta Claire Henry, Peter B. McQuillan, James B. Kirkpatrick

Abstract: The Southernmost region of Australia, the island of Tasmania, is also the most mountainous, with large areas of rugged alpine environments. This entomological frontier offers a distinct suite of insects for study including many endemic taxa. However, harsh weather, remote locations and rough terrain represent an environment too extreme for many existing insect trap designs. We report here on the design and efficacy of a new Alpine Malaise Trap (AMT), which can be readily hybridised with several other common insect trapping techniques. Advantages of the design include its light weight and portability, low cost, robustness, rapid deployment and long autonomous sampling period. The AMT was field tested in the Tasmanian highlands (AUST) in 2017. A total of 16 orders were collected. As expected, samples are dominated by Diptera. However, the trap also collected a range of flightless taxa including endemic and apterous species, Apteropanorpa tasmanica – closest relative of the boreal, snow scorpionflies (Boreidae). Combined and compared with other trap types the Alpine Malaise Traps captured less specimens but of a greater diversity than passive sticky traps, while drop traps captured less specimens but a greater diversity than AMT. The statistical potential of the catch is discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 20 Jul 2018 08:27:03 +0300
On the genus Chaetocladius s. str. Kieffer, 1911 from Switzerland with descriptions of five new relic species occurring in glacial alpine springs and streams (Diptera, Chironomidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/22759/ Alpine Entomology 2: 15-34

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.22759

Authors: Joel Moubayed-Breil, Brigitte Lods-Crozet

Abstract: A description of the male adults of five Chaetocladius s. str. species (C. castellae sp. n., C. lencioniae sp. n., C. lodscrozetae sp. n., C. macunensis sp. n. and C. muttensis sp. n.) is provided based on material collected in some glacial alpine springs and cold streams located in the Swiss Alps (altitude 1800–2700 m). Male adult of the nearest Chaetocladius species known from Europe and neighbouring areas belong to: C. aedeagolobatus Rossaro, Magoga & Montagna, 2017; C. insolitus Caspers, 1987; C. gracilis Brundin 1956; C. antipovae Makarchenko & Makarchenko, 2011; C. dissipatus (Edwards, 1929), C. holmgreni (Jacobson, 1998), C. egorych Makarchenko & Makarchenko, 2017. Although some resemblance can be found between the five diagnosed and described species and other related members of the Chaetocladius genus, the taxonomic position cannot be clarified until current comprehensive work on the genus is complete. Geographical distribution of the five new species is currently restricted to the two Alpine Swiss glacial catchments: upper basins of the Rhône River and Muttbach streams; streams and lakes delimited by the Macun area. This highlights the importance of some high mountain ranges, considered as cold glacial enclaves and hotspots of endemism, in the preservation and persistence of autochthonous alpine relic species. Such species are considered as relevant biogeographic representative and their loss would be biologically indicative of global warming and climate change. Currently, there are only seven recorded Chaetocladius species from Switzerland: C. coppai Moubayed-Breil, 2017; C. laminatus Brundin, 1947; C. cf. longivirgatus Stur & Spies, 2011; C. melaleucus (Meigen, 1818); C. perennis (Meigen, 1830); C. piger (Goetghebuer, 1913); C. suecicus (Kieffer, 1916). Consequently, the description of the five new species increases the total number in the genus Chaetocladius to twelve for this country. Remarks and comments on the taxonomic position, ecology and geographical distribution of the new described species, with key to known male adults from the upper catchment of Rhône River (including Muttbach valley) are provided..

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 2 Mar 2018 15:00:17 +0200
Amended description and new combination for Entomophthora nebriae Raunkiaer, (1893), a little known entomopathogenic fungus attacking the ground beetle Nebria brevicollis (Fabricius, 1792) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/22136/ Alpine Entomology 2: 1-5

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.22136

Authors: Siegfried Keller, Thorben Hülsewig

Abstract: A fungus attacking the ground beetle Nebria brevicollis (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera, Carabidae) was collected in north-western Germany. The fungus was identical to Entomophthora nebriae Raunkiaer, 1893 (Entomophthoromycotina, Entomophthoraceae), described in 1893 from Denmark and so far only known from the type collection. We provide an amended description of E. nebriae based on the new collection and transfer the species to the genus Erynia as Erynia nebriae comb. n.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 5 Jan 2018 17:49:03 +0200
From the South and from the North? – Quilnus marcosi Heiss & Baena and Aradus angularis J. Sahlberg, two flat bug species new for Central Europe (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Aradidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/21801/ Alpine Entomology 2: 7-14

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.2.21801

Authors: Martin M. Gossner, Ralf Heckmann, Marco Moretti

Abstract: The flat bug fauna of Switzerland is still insufficiently studied. We describe the first records of Aradus angularis J. Sahlberg, 1886 and Quilnus marcosi Heiss & Baena, 2006 (Heteroptera: Aradidae) in Switzerland from a burnt forest area in the canton Valais. These are also the first records for Central Europe. With these new records, the number of Aradidae species recorded in Switzerland increases to 21, and in the canton Valais to 16. A cantonal record list of aradid species in Switzerland and photographs of the two recently new recorded species are provided. The pyrophilous A. angularis shows a disjunct distribution pattern, disconnected from its known distributional range from Fennoscandia to Northeast China, which suggests that the species is a relict of the Ice Age in Central Europe. In contrast, the sub-Mediterranean Q. marcosi seems to have expanded its distributional range to the north-east or has previously gone unnoticed in Switzerland. The host plants of Q. marcosi include Pinus nigra and P. sylvestris.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 5 Jan 2018 11:30:34 +0200
Liste commentée des Scarabaeoidea (Coleoptera) de Suisse https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/21179/ Alpine Entomology 1: 57-90

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.1.21179

Authors: Vivien Cosandey, Andreas Sanchez, Yannick Chittaro

Abstract: Annotated checklist of Scarabaeoidea (Coleoptera) of Switzerland An updated checklist of the Swiss species belonging to the superfamily Scarabaeoidea is presented and briefly discussed. A total of 173 species belonging to the families Geotrupidae, Glaphyridae, Lucanidae, Ochodaeidae, Scarabaeidae and Trogidae is confirmed for Switzerland. This species list is based on 73’358 occurrences obtained from the identification of specimens held in museums and private collections and from the literature. In parallel, 65 species that were recorded from Switzerland in the past are excluded from this list, for reasons of insufficient documentation.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Checklist Mon, 20 Nov 2017 23:18:15 +0200
Zweiter Nachtrag zur Rüsselkäfer-Fauna der Schweiz (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/17788/ Alpine Entomology 1: 43-49

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.1.17788

Authors: Christoph Germann

Abstract: Second addition to the checklist of Swiss weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea) The number of reliably recorded taxa (species and subspecies) of Curculionoidea from Switzerland reaches at present 1080. Catapion vulnerariae (Dieckmann & Wanat, 1991), Otiorhynchus lugdunensis Boheman, 1843 and Tychius trivialis Boheman, 1843 are here recorded for the first time from Switzerland. Additional data on distribution and biology is given for 16 species.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 20 Nov 2017 22:10:43 +0200
Hofmann AF & Tremewan WG (2017) The Natural History of Burnet Moths (Zygaena Fabricius, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Zygaenidae), Part I https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/22129/ Alpine Entomology 1: 117-119

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.1.22129

Authors: Raymond Guenin

Abstract: none

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Book Review Mon, 20 Nov 2017 21:03:18 +0200
Laufkäfer in der Aare-Aue Rupperswil, Kanton Aargau, in den ersten fünf Jahren nach der Renaturierung (Coleoptera, Carabidae) https://alpineentomology.pensoft.net/article/20948/ Alpine Entomology 1: 5-15

DOI: 10.3897/alpento.1.20948

Authors: Thomas Walter, Nina Richner, Eliane Meier, René Hoess

Abstract: Ground beetles of the alluvial area Rupperswil, Canton Aargau, Switzerland, during the five years after its restoration (Coleoptera, Carabidae) The Rupperswil floodplain (Canton Aargau) was restored in the years 2010–2011. From 2012 to 2016, annual surveys of ground beetles were conducted. Over the five years, a total of 116 species were collected. From these species, 12 are classified as threatened, near threatened, or rare according to the Red List of Switzerland. Moreover, considerable numbers of Bembidion atrocaeruleum, B. prasinum, and Harpalus progrediens were found in the Rupperswil floodplain, for which the Canton Aargau has a particularly high responsibility for conservation. Additionally, 37 of the recorded species are character species for floodplains. Thus, the restoration can be considered very successful for ground beetles. Non-restored areas, characterized by river training measures, harbor generally half as many species at best. The number of species recorded per year varied between 68 and 82. Species turnover rate was between 28 and 45%. This reflects the change in habitats and hydrology over the five years. Open gravel/sand surfaces and annual ruderal habitats were reduced to one-third of their original area, while reed canary grass stands and perennial ruderal habitats tripled in size. On the other hand, the turnover is certainly also due to the low detection probability of rare species. Despite the strong decline in individual ground beetle species which typically occur on open gravel surfaces, it would be premature to initiate interventions to rebuild such areas. During the last year of the study, all typical gravel species observed in the previous years within the study area were found again. If anything, it would be more beneficial to build ponds with flat banks of fine sand within the forested sections of the floodplain or clear some patches to create more ruderal areas. RÉSUMÉ La zone alluviale de Rupperswil (canton d’Argovie) a été renaturée dans les années 2010-2011. De 2012 à 2016, les carabes ont été recensés annuellement. Au total, 116 espèces ont pu être identifiées. Parmi celles-ci, 12 espèces sont considérées comme en danger, potentiellement en danger ou rare selon la Liste Rouge. 37 espèces sont des espèces indicatrices pour les zones alluviales. Ainsi, la renaturation peut être considérée comme très réussie pour les carabes. Dans les surfaces non renaturées avec une dynamique alluviale réduite, causé par des mesures de construction fluviales, la moitié des espèces peuvent au mieux être trouvées. En comparaison de la Suisse dans son ensemble, la responsabilité de l’Argovie est très élevée pour le maintien en particulier de Bembidion atrocaeruleum, très fréquent, de B. prasinum et de Harpalus progrediens nombreux à Rupperswil. Pour un même effort d’échantillonnage, le nombre d’espèces trouvées a varié entre 68 et 82 pour les deux années. Le degré de turnover d’une année à l’autre s’est situé entre 28 et 45%. Ceci reflète d’une part le changement des biotopes et une hydrologie variable sur les cinq ans. Les alluvions sans végétation et les surfaces rudérales annuelles ont diminué d’environ un tiers alors que les Phalaridions et les surfaces rudérales pluriannuelles ont triplé. D’autre part, le turnover doit aussi être attribué à la probabilité réduite de trouver les espèces rares. Malgré un fort recul de certaines espèces particulières qui apparaissent typiquement dans les gravières ouvertes, il serait prématuré de créer de nouveau de telles surfaces par des interventions. Toutes les espèces de gravière ont encore pu être trouvées dans la région la dernière année d’étude. Le cas échéant, l’installation d’étangs dans la forêt de la zone alluviale avec des surfaces à sédiments fins provenant des berges de même qu’un nouvel écorchement de surfaces partielles pour la création de couloirs rudéraux seraient favorables. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Die Aue Rupperswil (Kanton Aargau) wurde in den Jahren 2010-2011 renaturiert. Von 2012 bis 2016 wurden jährlich die Laufkäfer untersucht. Insgesamt konnten 116 Arten nachgewiesen werden. Davon sind 12 Arten gemäss Roter Liste gefährdet, potenziell gefährdet oder selten. 37 Arten sind Auenkennarten. Damit kann die Renaturierung bezüglich der Laufkäfer als sehr erfolgreich bezeichnet werden. In Gebieten, wo die Auendynamik durch flussbauliche Massnahmen stark reduziert ist, findet man bestenfalls halb so viele Arten. Im gesamtschweizerischen Vergleich ist die Verantwortung des Kanton Aargau für die Erhaltung insbesondere von Bembidion atrocaeruleum, in Rupperswil sehr häufig, B. prasinum, sowie Harpalus progrediens, beide zahlreich, sehr hoch. Die Anzahl der in den einzelnen Jahren bei gleichem Sammelaufwand gefundenen Arten variierte zwischen 68 und 82. Die Turnover-Rate der Arten in den Folgejahren betrug zwischen 28 und 45%. Dies widerspiegelt einerseits die Veränderung der Lebensräume sowie die unterschiedliche Hydrologie in den fünf Jahren. Offene Kies-Sandflächen und einjährige Ruderalfluren sind auf ca. einen Drittel geschrumpft während sich Rohrglanzgrasbestände und mehrjährige Ruderalfluren verdreifacht haben. Andererseits ist der Turnover sicher auch auf die geringe Auffindwahrscheinlichkeit selten vorkommender Arten zurückzuführen. Trotz starken Rückgängen einzelner Laufkäferarten, die typischerweise auf offenen Kiesflächen vorkommen, wäre es verfrüht, solche Flächen durch Eingriffe wieder zu schaffen. Es konnten auch im letzten Untersuchungsjahr noch alle typischen Kiesbank-Arten im Gebiet nachgewiesen werden. Allenfalls förderlich wären die Anlage von Tümpeln mit flachen aus Feinsedimenten bestehenden Uferpartien im Waldgebiet der Aue sowie das erneute Abschürfen einzelner Teilflächen zur Schaffung von Ruderalfluren.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 20 Nov 2017 15:49:10 +0200