Distribution survey of soil insects at Millers Flat, Central Otago

Abstract

Abstract A soil-sampling survey carried out between 100–900 m altitude in the Millers Flat area of Central Otago investigated pasture type preferences and altitude range of the main pasture pests. Costelytra zealandica (White) was commonly found at high densities up to 600 m, particularly in cultivated pastures. Odontria striata White showed no pasture type preferences but was most common at 460–600 m altitude. Pyronota spp. were common in tussock grassland sites above 600 m, a habitat to which tipulid larvae and cicada nymphs were almost exclusively restricted. Wiseana spp. were most numerous at 300–600 m, the zone in which most new pasture development by cultivation had taken place within the previous 5 years; undeveloped tussock sites supported lower numbers. Root-feeding weevil larvae were common, often at high densities.