The native forest insects have been little studied despite being a key component of our fragile ecosystems and having a high level of endemicity (>50%).

The project “Rediscovering the neglected insects of the Mascarene”, attempted to bridge the knowledge gap on this group and in so doing, provided a foundation to include insects in national conservation strategies.

Given the high diversity of the group, one focal taxon [Coleoptera (i.e, beetles)] was selected, as the main study group. Beetles are ideal candidates given that they are well represented in the native upland forests of Mauritius and the most diverse group locally. Furthermore, some level of taxonomic expertise on the group is available within local and international collaborating institutions.

7 forested areas in Mauritius and Rodrigues were surveyed using both quantitative (e.g. pitfall traps, Winkler sampling and flight intercept/sticky trap) and qualitative techniques (e.g. light trapping, malaise traps, direct searching).

The beetles were sorted into recognizable taxonomic units (RTUs) based on physical traits. Over 160 RTUs were categorized and represent around 15 % of the recorded species in Mauritius. Most of the RTUs have been identified to Family level. Each RTU will now be further identified to the lowest taxon level possible (minimum Genus level) using taxonomic keys, expertise available in partner organizations and reference collections housed both at the Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute and the Natural History Museum, UK. This process is still ongoing.

Sponsored By:
The Darwin Initiative
University of Plymouth

Last update: 15 January 2007