Comparative analysis of different beetle collection techniques in agroecosystems of Idukki district, Kerala
Abstract
The study assesses the efficacy of different beetle collection methods—pitfall traps, light traps, flight-intercept traps, and hand-picking —in collecting diverse range of beetle species (Arthropoda: Coleoptera) across different agroecosystems of Idukki district, Kerala. The study was conducted during January 2022 to December 2022. The beetles from Rubber plantation, Coconut plantation, Pineapple plantation, Cardamom plantation and Mixed plantations were collected using different traps. Collected beetles were identified upto family level. A total of 19 families were recorded during the study. The abundance of beetles was collected through pitfall trap was more while diversity of beetles was more in light trap and hand-picking method. Pitfall traps are particularly effective for sampling ground-dwelling beetles like Scarabaeidae and Carabidae. Light traps were highly efficient in attracting beetles like Lampyridae, Elateridae, Cerambycidae, Scarabaeidae, Tenebrionidae, Lycidae etc, contributing significantly to both total captures and species diversity. Light traps are identified as the most effective in terms of species richness and total abundance. Flight-intercept traps captured flying beetles at different heights but its diversity and abundance were less. Coccinellidae, Chrysomelidae, Lampyridae, Curculionidae etc were more collected through hand picking method. The study highlights the importance of using species specific traps for the mechanical collection and removal pests in the agricultural fields. The use of different beetle collection techniques in taxonomic identification of Coleoptera helps to obtain more diversity. The findings offer practical insights into optimizing sampling methodologies in biodiversity hotspots and emphasize the role of diverse beetle collection methods in enhancing pest control efforts and conservation planning.
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