Entomological fauna from Reserva Biológica do Atol das Rocas, RN, Brazil: I. Morphospecies composition

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Entomology
• Ecology

Background:

• Atol das Rocas is a unique, remote atoll in the South-western Atlantic, largely undisturbed by human activities.
• The atoll supports a large population of approximately 143,000 birds.
• Previous characterization of its entomofauna and trophic niches was limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a preliminary characterization of the entomological diversity at Atol das Rocas.
• To identify the general trophic niches of the atoll's insect fauna.
• To assess the relationship between insect ecological niches and available resources.

Main Methods:

• Conducted three collection expeditions in 1994, 1995, and 1996.
• Employed various collection methods to ensure a wide sample of entomofauna.
• Collected 1,606 insect specimens across eight orders and 112 arachnid specimens.

Main Results:

• Identified 25 morphospecies of insects and arachnids.
• Collected specimens from Coleoptera, Dermaptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Mallophaga, Orthoptera, and Thysanoptera orders.
• Observed that most insects are detritophagous and/or necrophagous, with ecological niches influenced by bird droppings, trash, and carcasses.

Conclusions:

• The entomofauna of Atol das Rocas exhibits low diversity.
• Insect trophic niches are primarily determined by the abundance of organic matter from bird activity.
• Further research may be needed to fully understand the atoll's unique ecosystem.