The praying mantids (Insecta: Mantodea) as indicators for biodiversity and environmental conservation: a case study from the Maltese and Balearic archipelagos

Abstract

ABSTRACT The use of mantids as indicators for biodiversity and environmental conservation has been studied on different islands of the Mediterranean Basin, specifically the Maltese and Balearic archipelago. The study focused on three model species: a generalist and cosmopolitan species (Mantis religiosa); a species that is uncommon but widespread in the Mediterranean area, adapted to maquis and garrigue environments (Ameles spallanzania); and a rare species linked to dry and semi-desertic biotopes (Rivetina baetica). Their presence and distribution have been found to be significantly correlated with the species richness of Orthoptera, already known to be sound indicators of biodiversity, as well as other elements of their complementary network. All three species preferred both natural and well-preserved habitats over areas subject to human impacts on the land, such as medium to intensive agriculture or habitat degradation. This therefore qualifies them as sound bioindicators for habitat conservation, and their role as such is discussed within both local and global contexts. Key policy insights ● Praying mantids proved to be good indicators for biodiversity and environmental conservation in some representative Mediterranean environments and may be used also in some more global contexts. ● Some land-uses and human activities have a significant impact on the biology of at least three wide-spread mantid species and their complementary network. ● Ecological corridors of unmanaged natural vegetation can have a key role in maintaining the presence of these insects and the biodiversity they represent.