Rapid Succession of Orthopteran Assemblages Driven by Patch Size and Connectivity

Abstract

Bearing in mind the current dramatic decline in biodiversity, in addition to preserving remaining natural habitat patches, performing successful habitat restorations and land-use is increasingly essential. In this study, the effect of patch size and connectivity on the early succession of orthopteran assemblages was examined in reconstructed Central European sand habitats. The first comprehensive study on this topic demonstrated that the diversity of the assemblages in mid-successional stages (4th and 5th years of research) reached the value which characterised the control areas. Grazing can preserve habitats in this successional stage. Based on the results of the study in sand habitats belonging to low-productivity dry grasslands, to maintain heterogeneous habitat structures, traditional moderate grazing is recommended. Grazing by sheep is the most beneficial for maintaining the presence of open surfaces, closed patches, and fallen foliage cover in optimal proportions for orthopterans. It was also revealed, that during habitat restorations of sand grasslands, patch size and connectivity affect the species richness of habitat specialist orthopteran species strongly.