Seasonal Abundance of Hemipterans onCaryocar brasiliense(Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) Trees in the Cerrado

Research on the seasonal abundance of hemipterans and their predators on Caryocar brasiliense trees in Cerrado Protected Areas reveals a dynamic ecological interaction influenced by plant phenology and weather. The study, conducted over three years across Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks, found that while the number of sucking insect individuals remained consistent throughout seasons, species diversity peaked in winter. Predator abundance and diversity also showed seasonal variation, with winter being the most diverse season for both groups. Notably, certain predator species like Crematogaster sp. and Trybonia sp. exhibited significant correlations with the presence of specific hemipteran species, such as Dikrella sp., suggesting a complex interplay between these organisms. The findings highlight the importance of seasonal and phenological factors in shaping insect communities within this protected ecosystem.

Leite, G. L. D., Veloso, R. V. D. S., Zanuncio, J. C., Fernandes, G. W., Almeida, C. I. M., Ferreira, P. S. F., Alonso, J., & Serrão, J. E. (2012). Seasonal Abundance of Hemipterans onCaryocar brasiliense(Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) Trees in the Cerrado. Florida Entomologist, 95(4), 862–872. https://doi.org/10.1653/024.095.0407