Carabidae diversity along an altitudinal gradient in a Peruvian cloud forest (Coleoptera)

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Biodiversity studies
• Entomology

Background:

• High-altitude ecosystems harbor unique biodiversity.
• Cloud forests in the Peruvian Andes are known biodiversity hotspots.
• Carabid beetles are important indicators of environmental change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically sample carabid beetles along an altitudinal gradient in Manu National Park, Peru.
• To assess species richness and distribution patterns of carabid beetles in relation to altitude.
• To provide baseline data for conservation efforts in the region.

Main Methods:

• Sampling conducted at five sites along a 15 km transect (1500 m to 3400 m).
• Seasonal collections over a one-year period.
• Comparison of active (hand) and passive (pitfall trap) collection methods.

Main Results:

• 77 morphospecies collected, with 60% projected as undescribed.
• Significant negative correlation between species richness and altitude (1 species per 100 m increase).
• 70.1% of species were restricted to a single altitudinal site; only one genus found at all five sites.

Conclusions:

• Species richness of carabid beetles significantly decreases with increasing altitude in this cloud forest gradient.
• High degree of altitudinal specialization among carabid beetle species.
• The findings underscore the exceptional biodiversity of the eastern slopes of the Peruvian Andes and the urgent need for its conservation.