Quantifying dispersal in British noctuid moths

摘要: Dispersal is an important process in the ecology and evolution of organisms, affecting species’ population dynamics, gene flow, range size. Around two thirds common widespread British macro-moths have declined abundance over last 40 years, dispersal ability may be determining whether or not species persist this changing environment. However, knowledge lacking because difficult to measure directly nocturnal flying insects. This thesis investigated abilities noctuid moths examine how related adult flight morphology trends. Noctuid are taxon study their role many ecosystem processes (e.g. as pollinators, pests prey), hence focus study. I developed a novel tethered mill technique quantify (size 12 – 27 mm forewing length). I demonstrated that provided measures performance lab (measures speed distance flown overnight) reflected reported wild. revealed length was good predictor inter-specific differences among 32 moth species. also found high levels intra-specific variation performance, both resource-related variables (amount food consumed by individuals prior flight, mass loss adults during flight) contributed variation. Analysis Rothamsted Insect Survey data National Moth Recording Scheme changes distribution patterns UK past 4 decades some evidence length) The analysis indicated with intermediate declining more than those either low ability. I conclude new provides opportunities for multi-species cross-taxon comparisons utility wing proxy facilitate inclusion information into analyses wide has effect on but other factors such habitat availability responses climate likely play role.