Spatial distribution and seasonal behavior of Endecous aguassay and Eidmanacris lencionii (Orthoptera: Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae) in an artificial iron ore cave

Abstract

Cricket species from the genus Endecous and Eidmanacris have occurrence records in Brazilian caves. In general crickets can be classified as generalist detritivorous feeding on guano and debris like leaves and rotting logs. In this study, we analyzed the variations on the spatial distribution of two sympatric cave crickets (Endecous sp. and Eidmanacris sp.), inhabiting an artificial iron ore cave in Brazil (Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, Brazil). Spatial Point Pattern Analysis were made to analyze the spatial patterns of these species. The two analyzed species presented spatial segregation with spatial distribution varying according to the seasonal variations. Spatial patterns in here observed, as well as the spatial interactions of attraction and repulsion, presented by Endecous sp. and Eidmanacris sp. may be due to ecological interactions but also to preferences for microhabitats, level of cave adaptation or behavioral differences. It is expected that this research will contribute to a better understanding of these systems and in the proposal for more effective conservation alternatives of the underground systems.