Macrolepidoptera diversity in the Indo-Australian tropics: geographic, biotopic and taxonomic variations

摘要: Data are presented on the richness of Macrolepidoptera faunas in Indo-Australian tropics, and proportional representation various families. Both overall diversity families decline with latitude also isolation from major land areas. Exceptions noted. Measures alpha-diversity quantitative light-trap samples indicate that within tropics is often greatest at altitudes around 1000 m, declining above level. Diversity much lower Pacific archipelagos. Loss through disturbance conversion to agriculture evident marked. Problems measurement light-traps discussed, exemplified by results obtained using different trap types. Changes family proportions habitat type examined. Family generally decreased altitude agriculture, though there exceptions this decline.