An investigation into the distribution of woodland invertebrates with particular reference to carabid beetles, at high beach, Epping Forest

Abstract

Six replicate sites of Betula- Faguswere located at Epping Forest. Between June to October 1990 and April to May 1991 pitfall traps were used to sample the Invertebrate fauna. Each site was surveyed and a series of environmental factors were recorded. Sorting and identification of the catch was undertaken and the invertebrate data (with particularly interest in the carabids) was analysed using DECORANA, CANOCO and TWINSPAN. The four major environmental gradients affecting carabid distribution were found to be: humidity, ground temperature, light and vegetation cover. Predictive equations determining species abundance under specific environmental conditions were produced and conservation implications of the work were discussed.