Updated list and community structure of Tettigonioidea and Acridoidea (Insecta: Orthoptera) of the Alta Murgia plateau (Italy)

Abstract

Alta Murgia calcareous plateau (southeast Italy) is thought to represent one of the most important area for Orthoptera in southern Italy, both due to its biogeographical concern and its unique richness in semi-natural dry grasslands. Since the half of the last century, no recent synthesis has been proposed for the Orthopterofauna of this area and a revision of old observations was still needed. This paper propose a reviewed list of Tettigonioidea and Acridoidea species from the Alta Murgia plateau, also providing information on local community structure and ecology. Based on the revision of previously published lists of species and on data collected during recent field works, a number of 37 species of grasshoppers and katydids is reported. The majority of species found in literature were confirmed, and six species were recorded as new for the area. Data collected during recent field works also enable to provide information about community structure, with particular focus on grassland habitat. This study also gives suggestions for replicable monitoring of Orthoptera assemblages in this area, as it is a valuable information for habitat surveillance purposes and ecosystem conservation strategies.