Partitioning resources through the seasons: abundance and phenology of carrion beetles (Silphidae) in southeastern Ontario, Canada

Canadian Journal of Zoology, Ahead of Print. The coexistence of ecologically similar species is thought to require resource partitioning to minimize competition. Phenological, seasonal differences in activity may provide an important axis for resource partitioning. Here, we test for evidence of seasonal differences in activity within a diverse guild of carrion beetles (Silphidae) in a habitat preserve on the Frontenac Arch, southeastern Ontario, Canada, using a large-scale survey during their active seasons (April to October). We then used generalized additive models to test for differences in seasonal abundance among eight co-occurring carrion beetle species, including five species of burying beetles (Nicrophorinae: Nicrophorus Fabricius, 1775) and three species from the Silphinae subfamily. Consistent with previous work, all species showed seasonal variation in abundance, with peak abundance of most species occurring between June and August. All but one species (Nicrophorus sayi Laporte, 1840) showed positive relationships between abundance and temperature. We find evidence consistent with seasonal partitioning of resources among Nicrophorus habitat generalists that could potentially reduce competition for limited carrion resources. In contrast, we find little evidence for seasonal differences in abundance among Nicrophorus habitat specialists, which instead may partition resources spatially. Overall, our results provide evidence consistent with an important role for season...

Source: Canadian Journal of Zoology - August 9, 2021 Category: Zoology Authors: J.D. Wettlaufer K.W. Burke D.V. Beresford P.R. Martin Source Type: research