The diversity of arthropods associated with the exotic creeping daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata) in Suva, Fiji Islands

Abstract

Arthropods were collected from 20 roadside patches of the invasive creeping daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata) in Suva, fiji, using a sweep net. In total, 841 individuals were collected, assigned to 104 recognizable Taxonomic units (rTus) in nine major taxonomic groups. Even though the plant has been present in Suva for only 40 years, the use of rarefaction methods suggests it may be valuable to arthropods, including native and endemic taxa, and play host to around 120 species in the Suva area alone. Honey bees were observed on the flowers, suggesting the plant may be beneficial to honey producers as a source of supplementary pollen and nectar. Although the fauna appeared to be dominated by exotic species, some native fijian insect species were recorded, indicating there may be some minor conservation potential for this plant as an alternative host for invertebrates and enhancing local biodiversity, especially in an urban setting.