Abstract
SUMMARY Heath and Rothamsted light traps and a Johnson‐Taylor suction trap were used to sample flying insects on Aldabra Atoll. The present study extended over two wet seasons. The pattern of relative monthly insect activity resembled the rainfall pattern. Catches were greatest during the months when there was a sudden marked increase in precipitation. Lepidoptera dominated light trap catches and Diptera suction trap catches, the total monthly insect numbers therefore reflecting the abundance of these two orders. Hemiptera, Coleoptera and Hymenoptera were also common. Predominant families were represented by only a few or even only one dominant species. These species were present throughout the study period although their monthly totals varied considerably, different species dominating the catches during different months. The composition and size of catches in the three light traps was affected by the type of light source and surrounding vegetation. A comprehensive list of families and selected common species is given with their relative monthly abundance in the light traps. Suction trap catches were segregated on an hourly basis to give a broad indication of insect flight periodicity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Transactions of the Royal Entomological Society of London
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
