Structure of the Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) Community in a Tropical Deciduous Forest in Northern Morelos, Mexico

The purpose of this study was to determine the structure of the community and seasonality of the Cerambycidae family in the tropical deciduous forest (TDF) of San Andres de la Cal, Tepoztlan in Morelos, Mexico. Following a year of systematic collections, and with the addition of data obtained from breeding chambers and sporadic collections, 155 species, 91 genera, 35 tribes, and 4 subfamilies were recorded. Thirty-three of these species, >21% are new records for the state of Morelos. Sample coverage was 97% and, according to the Chao 1 richness estimator, we found 80% of the species present in the study area. Greater species richness, abundance, and diversity were found during the rainy season, which generates a significant difference between seasons. The ordering of faunal similarities between months indicated a marked seasonality in the composition. The data suggest that the diversity of TDF insects is not completely known (i.e., new records were found), but comprises a diverse community, composed of a high proportion (78%) of rare species. Our findings reinforce the need to continue documenting insect diversity in TDF, especially considering that this is among the least protected of the ecosystems, and one that is negatively affected to a greater degree by anthropogenic activities and climate change.

Automated summary

The purpose of this study was to determine the structure and seasonality of the Cerambycidae family in the tropical deciduous forest of San Andres de la Cal, Tepoztlan in Mexico. The study recorded 155 species, 91 genera, 35 tribes, and 4 subfamilies, with a significant difference in species richness, abundance, and diversity between seasons. The research findings highlight the importance of documenting insect diversity in this ecosystem and the need for conservation efforts.