The invertebrate fauna of the litter surface of a <i>Nothofagus truncata</i> forest floor, and the effect of microclimate on activity

Abstract

The invertebrate fauna active on the surface of the litter in a Nothofagus tmncata forest was sampled continuously for 1 year with pitfall traps. Temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall were recorded, and their influence on populations was assessed. Climate remained within a range (&lt;20°C, &gt;70% RH) favourable for animal activity for much of the year, and many groups were present in all trap catches. Hot, dry conditions depressed activity in most Collembola and some spiders, but beetles, sciarid flies, ants, wetas, and amphipods maintained activity. In some groups, e.g., Collembola, climate may be the most important factor regulating populations. In other groups, e.g., Coleoptera, internal reproductive rhythms are more important than climate in the control of populations. The most important climatic variable affecting Collembola was rainfall.