Presence of Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1827) (Orthoptera Gryllidae) in the Oriented Nature Reserves “Capo Rama” (Terrasini, Palermo, Sicily) and “Torre Salsa” (Siculiana, Agrigento, Sicily)

Abstract

The authors present preliminary findings regarding the distribution and habitat selection of Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1927) (Orthoptera Gryllidae) within the “Capo Rama” and “Torre Salsa” Nature Reserves (Sicily, Italy). This elusive species is closely associated with undamaged coastal ecosystems and appears to be in decline in Italy. It has been listed in the European Union’s Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC and the European Red List. Consequently, a monitoring plan was initiated in March 2021 and continued into 2022. The monitoring involved identifying signs of presence (burrows, sand cones, and song) using zig-zag transects in sample areas, with the aim of collecting both presence/absence data and density information. The presence of the species has been confirmed at various sites within the two study areas and on the beach in Balestrate (Palermo). The data obtained are crucial for planning effective conservation initiatives for both the species itself and the ecosystems inhabited by it.