Insects associated with endangered plants in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Abstract

Few studies on insects and host plant associations have been undertaken in the Galápagos Islands. Since endemism in the Galápagos is high, and those species of endemic plants that are critically endangered will consequently also have an equally endangered insect fauna associated with them, it is important to know the endemic species of insects that have an association with those plants and their degree of dependence. Insect interactions with 19 species of endangered plant were observed and collections made between April 2001 and August 2002. One hundred and eight insect species were found to have some degree of interaction, using plants for refuge and/or as a food source. Eighty two of these could be identified to species. Most of the identified insects (76,8%) are endemic or native and several generalist feeders. They do not appear to have a restricted feeding range or distinct host plant preference