Elytron-Branding as a Permanent Marking Technique forNicrophorusFabricius (Coleoptera: Silphidae)

Abstract

Abstract Mark-recapture population estimates require the use of permanent marks that do not alter the survival or behavior of marked individuals. A number of marks have been developed to monitor populations of the federally endangered American burying beetle, Nicrophorus americanus Olivier. Surveys that employ marks are needed to determine population size and monitor population trends, which are required information to support recovery of this insect. However, studies have revealed problems with mark retention or damage to tested individuals associated with permanent marks. Currently used permanent marking techniques involve making a hole or removing a wedge from an ABB elytron. In this study, we tested the efficacy of elytron branding using a surgical cauterizer. The cauterizer was used to ablate one of the orange maculations on the elytron of four species of Nicrophorus Fabricius. We found that the marking technique was rapid compared with other techniques, permanent, and easily interpreted. American bu...