The Effects of Local Patch Fire Severities on Lepidoptera of the Pacific Northwest
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Date
2024
Authors
Glenn, Morgan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of varying fire severities on Lepidoptera populations in the Pacific Northwest, focusing on areas affected by the Holiday Farm, Beachie Creek, Dixie, and Claremont Fires in Oregon and California. By employing multiple collection methods, including netting, pan traps, and Blue Vane Traps (BVTs), Lepidoptera abundance, diversity, and overall richness were assessed across different fire severities. The results reveal that areas with heterogeneous fire severities exhibit greater Lepidoptera species richness and abundance compared to homogeneous fire regimes. Moreover, BVTs emerged as the most effective collection method, capturing the majority of recorded Lepidoptera specimens. However, this study acknowledges limitations such as small sample size and methodological biases. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights into the complex interactions between fire severity, landscape heterogeneity, and Lepidoptera communities, informing conservation and management strategies for promoting biodiversity conservation and eco-system resilience in fire-prone landscapes.
Description
35 pages
Keywords
Lepidoptera, Fire severity, Landscape heterogeneity, Holiday farm fire, Pollinator conservation