Insect fauna of epiphytes in the canopy of old rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum) at Bullock Creek, Paparoa National Park: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of B.Sc.(Hons) at Lincoln University, New Zealand

Abstract

Epiphytes growing in the canopy of rimu trees in Paparoa National Park, New Zealand, were studied to document their arthropod fauna. Samples were obtained from three mature rimu trees at low, mid and upper canopy height (maximum 25 m) using the single rope technique. At each height a sample of two epiphyte types, moss/ orchid mat and funnel forming astelia (Astelia spp.) or kiekie (Freycinetia banksii) were taken. In this study, 21 orders of arthropods, including insects from 11 orders, were found to be associated with the epiphytes. Mites and Collembola were the most abundant groups, whereas Coleoptera, Diptera and Hemiptera were the most diverse insect orders. Measures of species diversity and similarity showed that the forest floor and the rimu canopy harbour distinct insect communities and that there is about 50% dissimilarity in insect community composition between the ground and the canopy, and sites within the canopy. Differences in insect species diversity at different canopy heights and epiphyte types are discussed in relation to variation in microhabitat of this unique canopy habitat.