Diversity of praying mantises (Insecta: Mantodea) in Bukit Piton Forest Reserve, Lahad Datu, Sabah

Authors

  • Nazirah Mustaffa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51200/jtbc.v16i.2038

Keywords:

praying mantis, Sabah, composition, diversity, disturbed habitat, regenerating forest

Abstract

This study was the first attempt to investigate the praying mantis diversity and composition on a long term basis in a regenerating forest of Bukit Piton Forest Reserve. The study area was a disturbed forest which had been affected by logging activities and forest fires, and undergone a restoration programme. Twelve sampling sessions were carried out over a period of one year,  from August 2016 to July 2017, totalling  144 sampling days and nights. Methods included light traps, baited traps, and manual searching. A total of 187 individuals belonging to 19 species were successfully collected. The species sampled represent approximately 16% of the species that occur in Borneo. Mantidae was the dominant family, accounting for about 53% of total species and 36% of total individuals. The dominant species was Tropidomantis tenera which belongs to the family Iridopterygidae and made up 27% of the total individuals.  The diversity indices showed that the praying mantis cenosis in the area was moderately diverse. This study highlighted the importance of a regenerating forest for the preservation of a significant portion of the biodiversity. We hope that the information obtained from this study will contribute towards a better understanding of the diversity of this fascinating group of insects, as well as the importance of a regenerating forest as a habitat worthy of conservation efforts.

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Published

2019-10-15

How to Cite

Mustaffa, N. (2019). Diversity of praying mantises (Insecta: Mantodea) in Bukit Piton Forest Reserve, Lahad Datu, Sabah. Journal of Tropical Biology & Conservation (JTBC), 16, 185–196. https://doi.org/10.51200/jtbc.v16i.2038
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