Some aspects of vertical distribution of Aculeata (Hymenoptera, Insecta) in glades within forest ecosystems (temperate forests as an example)

Joint Directorate of the Mordovia State Nature Reserve and National Park «Smolny», 430005 Saransk, Russia

^* Corresponding author: ruchin.alexander@gmail.com

Abstract

The vertical distribution and seasonal abundance of Aculeata in glades in temperate forests of central European Russia was investigated. It was shown that the total number increased at a height of 6 and 8 m and decreased at a height of 2 m. At the same time, the species diversity of this group did not differ at different heights. Beer traps were dominated by social wasps from the family Vespidae, dominated by Vespa crabro and Vespula vulgaris. The subdominants were Dolichovespula media and Polistes nimpha. The maximum abundance of Vespa crabro was obtained at a height of 6 m, and Vespula vulgaris at a height of 8 m. Polistes nympha predominated in abundance at a height of 2 and 4 m, and the abundance of Dolichovespula media was higher at a height of 8 and 10 m. The seasonal rhythm of abundance included a minimum in June and reached a maximum in July and August. It did not differ at different heights.