Abstract

CARRARA, Rodolfo; CHELI, Germán H.  and  FLORES, Gustavo E.. Biogeographic patterns of epigean tenebrionids (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) from Protected Natural Area Península Valdés, Argentina: implications for its conservation. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2011, vol.82, n.4, pp.1297-1310. ISSN 2007-8706.

We conducted a study of the biogeographic patterns of epigean tenebrionids (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) that inhabit the Protected Natural Area Península Valdés (Chubut, Argentina), based on data obtained from collections and collecting trips. We present a comprehensive species list, where we detail the degree of adaptation to aridity shown by each species, an analysis of the quality of the inventory, an estimation of total species richness, and an evaluation of distribution and richness patterns, with the identification of areas of significantly greater richness or "hotspots". The results indicated that 25 species with different degrees of adaptation to aridity inhabit the peninsula, although it was estimated that the total richness of the area should be 27 species. In addition, it was recognized that the species range sizes follow a log-normal distribution and that only three species are endemic. The spatial distribution of richness was aggregate within the peninsula and we can identify 10 "hotspots". Finally, considering that in the Península Valdés are allowed productive activities that cause significant habitat degradation, we discuss the implicances that have these findings for epigean tenebrionids conservation.

Keywords : species list; adaptations to aridity; endemism; species richness; peninsula effect; mid domain effect; habitat degradation; priority areas for conservation.