Arboreal Coleoptera Associated with Leucosidea sericea (Rosaceae) at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Abstract

An analysis was made of arboreal Coleoptera on Leucosidea sericea from the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the north-eastern Orange Free State, Republic of South Africa. Five sites were selected from which samples were taken, using a beating technique, at equal intensity, during 13 consecutive months. A total of 117 species representing 35 families were recorded and allocated to four guilds, namely phytophages (47 species), predators (44 species), scavengers (16 species) and tourists (10 species). This diversity is attributed to the structural complexity and range of the host plant. The scarcity of a large number of these species is primarily ascribed to a high seasonal turnover rate. Species diversity and numbers of individuals were found to vary between the different study sites and are attributed to the growth stage and condition of the host plant, as well as the effect of sun and shade on activity cycles and the choice of feeding levels.