Curculionidae species within isolated wetlands of southwestern Georgia

Curculionidae are frequently recognized as favoring moist environments and wetland vegetation. To better understand the relationship between wetland type and the distribution of Curculionidae species, twenty-four isolated wetlands (previously characterized as marshes, savannas or forested swamps) were sampled. Twenty genera and twenty-five species were identified. Indicator species analysis revealed an association between the genus Dirabius and marsh habitat. NMS found a significant 3 dimensional solution. Savannas were characterized by Aulobaris anthracina. Marshes were characterized by Auleutes nebulosus, Conotrachelus naso, Hypera compta, Notiodes laticollis, Rhinoncus longulus, Sphenophorus minimus, Sitona lineatus and unidentified species of the genera Dirabius and Listronotus. Swamps were characterized by their absence of Curculionidae. These findings indicate that marshes provide more suitable habitat and possess characteristics that allow for the survival of many Curculionidae populations. There also appears to be a specific relationship between savannahs and Aulobaris anthracina.