Orthopteran Diversity in Steep Slope Vineyards: The Role of Vineyard Type and Vegetation Management

Abandonment of traditional viticultural practices and the shift from vertically oriented vineyards to modern terraced systems significantly impact Orthopteran diversity, particularly for open-adapted species. Research along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley in Germany revealed that woody structures and fallow land reduce habitat quality, thereby decreasing local and landscape-scale Orthoptera diversity. In contrast, actively managed vineyard types with open inter-rows support heat-adapted grasshoppers (Caelifera), while terrace embankments with extensive management and taller vegetation benefit bush-crickets (Ensifera). Short, mulched vegetation in vertically oriented vineyards, however, favors the dominance of a single Caelifera species. The study underscores the importance of maintaining viticultural management on steep slopes for preserving both biodiversity and cultural landscapes.

Wersebeckmann, V., Biegerl, C., Leyer, I., & Mody, K. (2023). Orthopteran Diversity in Steep Slope Vineyards: The Role of Vineyard Type and Vegetation Management. Insects, 14(1), 83. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14010083