Arthropod communities in a selenium-contaminated habitat with a focus on ant species.

摘要: The selenium contamination event that occurred at Kesterson Reservoir (Merced Co., CA) during the 1970-80s is a frequently cited example for negative effects of on wildlife. Despite importance arthropods ecosystem services and functioning, relatively little information available as to impacts pollution arthropod community dynamics. We conducted surveys present assess diversity, with focus ant species richness, composition density. Trophic groups were compared determine which potentially receiving greatest exposure. Plant samples analyzed content by site location within plant. Soil concentrations varied across study sites, but not habitat types. Topsoil contained higher levels core samples. Plants similar in their leaves, stems flowers, flowers range concentrations. Individuals detritivores/decomposers predators accumulated selenium, whereas nectarivores lowest Species differed sites: Dorymyrmex bicolor was located only containing soil concentration, Solenopsis xyloni found most sites predominant six sites. Selenium ants collection Nest density also differ related or any variables measured our study. impact significant variable occurrence two out eight native identified.