Influence of Substrate and Structure on the Colonization of an Artifact Simulating Decaying Oak Wood on Oak Trunks

Abstract

The fauna in dead oak wood in trees was studied by use of an artificial oak log (an oak box filled with oak sawdust). The effect of adding different treatments was studied: nutrient to encourage the growth of wood-rotting fungi and hence provide more food for fungus-feeders; structure to provide sheltering sites for some of the larger species, in an attempt to simulate an under loose bark habitat; boreholes to provide a form of space not readily accessible to large shelterers. Mites and the collembolan Entomobrya albocincta were significantly more abundant in the boxes with added nutrient. Clubiona corticalis (Aranea), hibernating thrips, larvae and pupae of Oecophoridae (Lepidoptera), adult Lathridius nodifer and Lathridius larvae (Coleoptera), and Cecidomyiidae larvae (Diptera) were all more abundant in the boxes with added structure. The comminuted nature of the sawdust seemed to be of prime importance in the development of the fauna. The loose texture provided a large surface area for the development of fungal hyphae, and an intricate network of space for shelter and living space for animals.