The impact of eucalyptus and pine plantations on the taxonomic and functional diversity of dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in the southern region of Ecuador

Abstract This study sheds light on the complex relationship between land use, biodiversity, and functional traits of dung beetles in Ecuador. The results indicate that the richness and abundance of dung beetles vary across land uses and regions, with forests generally having a positive impact and eucalyptus and pine plantations having a negative effect in certain areas. Specific indicators, such as Homocopris buckleyi for forest areas and Onthophagus curvicornis for eucalyptus plantations, have been identified. The study also found that functional diversity analysis, based on morphological traits, indicated that certain traits, such as biomass, pronotum width, head width, and elytra length, were significant contributors to differences in dung beetle communities across land uses and areas. This study highlights the potential conservation value of certain modified habitats and the importance of considering both taxonomic and functional diversity when assessing the impact of land use on the ecosystem services provided by dung beetles. It underscores the potential value of plantations as refuges for dung beetle communities and the importance of conducting long-term assessments to understand biodiversity changes over time.