Localized Effects of Tornado Damage on Ground Beetle Communities and Vegetation in a Forested Preserve

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Natural disturbances, such as tornados, can alter local habitat conditions and have the potential to affect animal communities in preserves. When such disturbances occur in natural areas, understanding these effects can help land managers develop responses and restoration actions following a disturbance. The effects of tornado and other strong wind damage on insect communities is poorly known even though insects comprise the majority of macroscopic diversity in terrestrial systems and are important contributors to ecosystem function. We examined ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) communities in spring, summer, and fall following an EF-4 tornado that struck a forested preserve in Illinois. We compared the communities and vegetation structure in plots that were affected or unaffected by the tornado. Sites within the tornado's path had reduced canopy cover but increased ground-level vegetation throughout the growing season. Beetle abundance and species richness were unaffected, but Shannon diver...