Vertical stratification on a small scale: the distribution of fruit-feeding butterflies in a semi-deciduous Atlantic forest in Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT Recently, the availability of cheap and effective survey methods increased the number of forest canopy studies. Several studies have described butterfly communities in the upper forest stratum. However, these studies were all conducted in tall forests (20–60 m canopy height). Here we aim to assess the stratification of fruit-feeding butterfly species in two vertical strata of a semi-deciduous seasonal forest. In addition, we present a field guide to assist in future butterfly monitoring. This study was carried out in two areas of semi-deciduous seasonal forest in the Serra da Bodoquena National Park, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Sampling monthly for a year both the, canopy and the understory, we recorded 4229 individuals of 65 species. The species community of fruit-feeding butterflies showed a clear vertical stratification. The composition differed significantly between the two vertical strata, with a higher species richness and abundance in the understory, but less diversity compared to the canopy. Species were distributed heterogeneously between the understory and the canopy in this forest of lower canopy height. Considering published literature of the Mato Grosso do Sul State, the Serra da Bodoquena is one of the most species rich areas with regard to fruit-feeding butterflies.