Saproxylic insects represent one of the most important groups of organisms that inhabit wood. Their abundance and diversity in dead wood are influenced by various abiotic and biotic factors. Deforestation, particularly through clear-cutting, can significantly alter the diversity and abundance of saproxylic insect populations.
Clear-cut logging typically leaves behind small-diameter wood, branches, and stumps. Additionally, it greatly changes microclimatic conditions, likely leading to saproxylic insect communities that differ substantially from those found in undisturbed forests. This study will employ emergence traps on various types of wood (branches, stems, stumps) and aims to examine the taxonomic and ecological groups within saproxylic communities, exploring how their diversity varies between different wood types and among similar wood types in neighboring forests that have not undergone clear-felling. Both morphological and molecular analyses of the insects are planned.
This research is also of practical significance, as clear-cutting remains a contentious issue among the general public and experts alike; however, concrete evidence of its negative impacts is still limited. This study will be the first of its kind conducted in Lithuania.
Mokslinis vadovas / Supervisor: prof. dr. Virginija Podėnienė, Biomokslų institutas, GMC, VU / Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University
Kontaktai / Contacts:
tel. / phone: +370 65205092
Programme: Zoology N 014