Socotra Archipelago – a lifeboat in the sea of changes: advancement in Socotran insect biodiversity survey
Batelka Jan
Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 52(supplementum 2): 1-26, 2012
Views: 1113
Abstract: Nature conditions in the Socotra Archipelago are briefly summarised, main
factors contributing to the composition and diversity of the insect fauna, i.e.
geological history, geographic position, geomorphology, climatic conditions and
plant diversity, are circumscribed. Results of the Socotran invertebrate
biodiversity research are reviewed, the first annotated list of 40 insect
genera and subgenera endemic to the Socotra Archipelago is provided. Recorded
high level of endemism in the Socotra Island is in accordance with the estimated
geological age and continuous stability of its ecosystem. Brief comparison of
biodiversity in Socotra and Seychelles Islands – both granitic archipelagos
of Gondwanan origin in the West Indian Ocean – is performed. Difference in
composition of insect fauna in Socotra and allied Abd el Kuri Island is
commented. Main threats and conservation issues concerning the fragile Socotran
ecosystem are summarised, and examples of possible consequences for insect fauna
are given. Based on comparison of scarce outputs and research activities
concerning the Socotran insect fauna so far with the number of those elaborated
for other countries/islands, establishing of a long-term insect survey is
recommended.
Key words: Review, insularity, geology, flora, climate, biodiversity, endemism, insect genera, habitat conservation, insect survey, Yemen, Socotra