Contrasting functional structure of saproxylic beetle assemblages associated to different microhabitats

Area of Science:

• Ecology and Entomology
• Biodiversity research
• Conservation biology

Background:

• Saproxylic beetles rely on varied microhabitats, leading to distinct species assemblages.
• Understanding functional traits and diversity is crucial for assessing ecosystem health and conservation needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze functional trait patterns and diversity components of saproxylic beetle assemblages.
• To compare assemblages collected using window traps (WTs) and hollow emergence traps (HETs) across protected areas.
• To investigate how microhabitat and habitat-level factors influence beetle functional diversity.

Main Methods:

• Collected beetle assemblages using WTs and HETs in three protected areas of the Iberian Peninsula.
• Measured phenological, physiological, morphological, and ecological traits for functional analysis.
• Compared functional trait patterns and diversity metrics between WT and HET assemblages.

Main Results:

• Microhabitats (WT vs. HET) significantly constrained morphological traits and trophic guilds.
• Habitat differences influenced relative elytra length, predator guild, and adult activity period.
• HET assemblages exhibited lower taxonomic but higher functional diversity than WT assemblages.
• Niche filtering dominated WT assemblages (narrower functional space, higher redundancy).
• Niche heterogeneity drove species coexistence in HET assemblages (functionally dissimilar species).

Conclusions:

• Microhabitat type is a key determinant of saproxylic beetle functional traits and diversity.
• Tree hollows (HETs) enhance functional diversity, underscoring their ecological importance.
• Management practices appear to reduce functional space in both WT and HET assemblages across study areas.