AQUATIC COLEOPTERA OF PEATLANDS AND MARSHES IN CANADA

• Published in: Memoirs of the Entomological Society of Canada
• Main Author: Larson, David J.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1987
• Subjects: Arctic; Canada
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.4039/entm119140099-1; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0071075X00003167

Abstract A rich fauna of water beetles, comprising 11 families and 485 species, occurs in Canadian peatlands and marshes. These beetles are diverse with respect to morphology, feeding habits, life-history patterns, and even in the degree to which they occur in water. Major adaptations to peatland and marsh habitats are described. Based on species composition, the following regional communities of marsh-inhabiting beetles are recognized: arctic, boreal, Cordilleran, grasslands, and eastern temperate. Peatlands possess a community of beetles similar to that of boreal marshes but contain enough unique elements to warrant separate recognition. However, based on water beetle distribution, it is not possible to subdivide peatlands into bog and fen communities because these habitats have many species in common. Future needs for research on wetland water beetles are identified.