Work

Factors determining diversity of saproxylic arthropods in the fruiting bodies of the birch polypore fungus (Fomitopsis betulina)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Certain basidiomycete fungi produce semi-stable fruiting bodies, known as brackets, that support a significant quality of saproxylic invertebrate biodiversity, especially in northern forests. The objective of this investigation was to assess the drivers of saproxylic diversity within the fruiting bodies of Fomitopsis betulina. We explore which factors are significant determinants of arthropod diversity and abundance, examining the effects of sporocarp size, height above the ground, and relative isolation from neighbouring sporocarps. RESULTS: We find that larger sporocarps support a greater number of arthropods, but diversity and species richness are determined by distance from nearest neighbour.

Source: BMC Research Notes

DOI: 10.1186/s13104-025-07434-6

Authors: Craig Perl, Simon Leather

Institutions: University of Stirling, Indiana University Indianapolis, Harper Adams University

Language: English

Topic: Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies

Subfield: Insect Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,690