Survey and Monitoring of Terrestrial Insect Resources in Dongsha Atol Marine National Park

Project Duration	2007-12-31 ~ 2009-12-30
Research Title	Survey and Monitoring of Terrestrial Insect Resources in Dongsha Atol Marine National Park
Contracted Organization	Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University
Principal Investigator	Yang Man-Miao
Project Personnel	Chiang Tung-Chuan, Fan-Chiang Chun-Cheng, Liu Che-Yuan, Tsai Ching-Fu, Wei Hsiang-Jung, Hsieh Tsung-Jui, Chen Wen-Neng, Hou Shun-Wei
Keywords	Dongsha Island, insect resource survey, functional groups
Abstract	This project conducted a systematic survey of terrestrial insect resources in Dongsha Atoll National Park, documenting species distribution, abundance, and habitat characteristics to establish a comprehensive insect fauna database. From May to November 2008, quantitative and qualitative insect sampling surveys were conducted for one week each in May, July, September, and November, with an additional five-day qualitative survey in October. Quantitative sampling employed fixed traps in designated plots, while qualitative surveys included visual searches and hand collection across the island, focusing on different host plants. A total of 392 morphospecies belonging to 15 orders and 119 families were collected. Among these, 77 species were identified to species level, including 38 newly recorded species. In terms of functional groups, the majority of insects were phytophagous (161 species), including 96 folivores, 4 grainivores, 1 herbivore (grass-feeder), 54 sap-feeders, and 6 nectarivores. Carnivorous insects accounted for 40 species, including 27 predators, 11 parasites, and 2 hematophagous species. Saprophagous insects totaled 66 species, comprising 65 plant-based decomposers and 1 necrophagous species. Results from fixed-trap sampling indicated clear seasonal and spatial differences in insect assemblages across sampling sites, with the tropical big-headed ant frequently recorded as a dominant species in many plots. Visual surveys documented insects associated with 19 common host plants. For environmental interpretation and education, the trail from Dongguang Hospital to Dawang Temple, characterized by low human disturbance and abundant nectar plants, is suitable for development as a nature observation trail. The northern freshwater grass marsh, an important habitat for aquatic insects, could be incorporated into a birdwatching and ecological observation area.