Different-scale distribution of Collembola in homogenous ground vegetation: Sphagnum moss

Abstract

Patterns of spatial distribution of Collembola were studied in sphagnum pine forests (Karelia, northwest of European Russia) in habitats of the same type using plots varying in area from 1 dm2 to 100 m2. The fractal design of counts with groups of samples taken from 5 cm to 10 m apart was used. The mosaic distribution and density of aggregations were assessed on different scales. Based on four model species, the patterns of spatial distribution were shown to be species-specific and constant in time and space. Two main types of species distribution (“continuous” and “spotty”) were distinguished. Such factors as relative humidity, mass of moss cover, and litter thickness only insignificantly affected the collembolan distribution within humid biotopes.