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Dryad

Spatio-temporal dynamics of insect communities in constructed and natural tidal marshes with distinct landscape positions

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Apr 26, 2024 version files 118.36 KB

Abstract

Recovery of species richness, community composition, and biogeochemistry in restored wetlands often fails to reach levels of reference wetlands. While the effects of restoration on plant and non-insect macroinvertebrate communities are relatively well-studied, much less is known about the impacts of restoration on insect communities in wetlands. The aim of this research was to determine if previously observed differences in biological structure between one reference and two constructed J. roemerianus-dominated tidal marshes extend to their insect communities. Sampling methods included pan trapping, line-transect netting, floral observations, floral clippings, and light trapping. All insect taxa and functional groups were identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible monthly from April – October 2021 and analyzed for taxa richness, abundance, and H′ diversity. Floral density and herbivory scars on J. roemerianus shoots were also measured during flowering and peak growing season, respectively. Results indicated that the reference marsh supported a more diverse insect community than the constructed marshes, although insect abundance and taxa richness were similar among sites. Additionally, temporal shifts in community composition, based on relative abundances of insect taxa and functional feeding groups, differed among marshes, likely reflecting differences in habitats in the surrounding landscapes of each site. By assessing the structural differences in insect communities between reference and constructed marshes, we can further understand the community composition of an understudied group of organisms, potentially improve restoration strategies, and support the health of tidal marshes.