Ecology of Some Panorpa (Mecoptera, Panorpidae) Species from Several Regions of Russia

Abstract

Our study focuses on the investigation of the ecological aspects (seasonal dynamics, height distribution, and preference of biotopes) of six species within the genus Panorpa (P. alpina Rambur, 1842, P. cognata Rambur, 1842, P. communis Linnaeus, 1758, P. germanica Linnaeus, 1758, P. hybrida MacLachlan, 1882, and P. vulgaris Imhoff & Labram, 1845). The observed seasonal dynamics predominantly display a monovoltine nature. P. communis was active from the early days of May, with individuals persisting until the beginning of October. Conversely, P. vulgaris exhibits activity from the third decade of May to mid-September. P. hybrida manifests within a concise timeframe, observed from late May to late July. P. cognata demonstrates activity commencing in early May, with individuals observed until the end of September. Within forest environments, the highest population density of all species is concentrated at a height of 1.5 m above ground level, whereas the minimum population density is recorded at a height of 12 m above ground level. P. vulgaris demonstrates comparable abundance across heights ranging from 1.5 to 7.5 m, whereas P. hybrida exhibits uniform distribution solely at heights of 1.5 and 3.5 m. Furthermore, the abundance of P. communis surpasses that at other heights when observed at the height of 1.5 m. Panorpa specimens exhibit an absence in open ecosystems at heights of 8 and 10 m. The peak of population density for all species is consistently identified at heights of 2 and 4 m. The application of six diverse entomological methodologies leads to optimal outcomes. Our investigations reveal that P. communis, P. vulgaris, and P. hybrida display greater attraction to beer traps, while P. cognata exhibits a comparatively diminished propensity for such traps. P. cognata, in contrast, demonstrates a substantial presence in pan traps and pitfall traps. In Malaise traps, pan traps, and pitfall traps, five distinct species were captured, although with a species composition differing from alternative methods. To sum up, for the comprehensive study of Panorpa across an expansive geographical spectrum, it is judicious to integrate both net captures and the use of diverse trap types. In addition, it is necessary to explore all biotopes and tiers of the forest.