Distribution of Satyrini (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) in Rio Grande do Sul State, southern Brazil

Abstract

Knowledge of species distribution is important for effective conservation measures. Considering that habitat features and abiotic factors can influence local community structure of butterflies, this study aimed to verify the existence of a pattern in the distribution of Satyrini in southern Brazil. For this objective, we updated the regional Satyrini species list based on field studies and literature, resulting in a total of 54 species. For those studies that presented clearly defined sampling sites, we analyzed the faunal similarity by site and by phytoecological region and verified the influences of environmental (altitude, average annual temperature and precipitation, and phytoecological region) and spatial variables (PCNM) in species distribution. We analyzed 156 records of 40 species at 14 sites and eight phytoecological regions. Environmental variables—namely, differences in temperature and phytoecological region—and spatial position proved to effect the distribution of Satyrini in southern Brazil. We thus urge that the future Conservation Units should be well spaced and properly distributed through environmentally distinct units in the landscape, representing different phytoecological regions. These conclusions shall provide subsidies to biodiversity conservation.

Elucidating plant-pollinator interactions in South Brazilian grasslands: What do we know and where are we going?

“…In the last few years, there was an increase in studies of butterfly diversity in the South Brazilian grasslands. However, data about plant species pollinated by butterflies are still scarce and new studies on pollination ecology of species visited by this group are promising (Paz et al 2013;Carvalho et al 2015).…”