Biodiversity and space/time structure of diptera (Insecta) in Collserola Park, Barcelona. Preliminary approach to the Hymenoptera order

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Main researcher: Jorge Luis Mederos

Description:
This project, based on the long-term monitoring of more diverse and prevalent insects, began in January 2009. Collserola Park is a natural area of more than 8000 hectares that forms part of the Catalan coastal mountain range. The importance of this spot lies in the fact that it is considered one of the largest metropolitan parks in the world, and represents the lungs of the city of Barcelona.

The fact that the area is surrounded by transport infrastructures together with the presence of humans, affects the health of the ecosystem. The study of arthropod organisms - the basis for maintaining any ecosystem - is essential for understanding the state of conservation of this natural area.

Until now, no study has been conducted in Collserola Park with a view to understanding the insects that support the forest crown - in particular, diptera. This study then, in addition to being previously unpublished, represents the first long-term follow-up of the phenology of the main groups of insects. The techniques used have already been used for similar studies in tropical forests, suitably modified for use in Mediterranean ecosystems, meaning that this project includes a significant innovative component.

The main objectives of the project are:

1. Understand the phenology of different families and species of diptera among the different layers of the canopy.

2. Determine the diptera taxa at individual as well as at family level, and wherever possible at specific level, those groups that are crucial for the functioning of the ecosystem (Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, among others).

3. Understand the biodiversity of the park and the presence or absence of species biomarkers.

4. Explain the space/time activity of diptera taxa in the area of study and the use of resources in the different strata of the canopy.

5. Disseminate the results through scientific publications and conferences.