First detection of the adventive large rove beetle Ocypus nitens (Schrank) in Canada and an update of its Nearctic distribution using data generated by the public

Citation

Brunke, A.J. (2016). First detection of the adventive large rove beetle Ocypus nitens (Schrank) in Canada and an update of its Nearctic distribution using data generated by the public, 4(1), http://dx.doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.4.e11012

Plain language summary

Non-native species can be accidentally established outside of their natural distribution via global trade. Through interaction with native species, they can compromise the integrity of Canada’s ecosystems and therefore, food and natural resource production. Non-native species may go unnoticed by scientists in Canada for many years due to initially small population sizes or ranges, difficulties in their identification or lack of specialized training. Thousands of insect photographs, digital specimen records, continue to be uploaded by members of the public with an interest in nature via online communities such as BugGuide.net. With the help of expert verification, this public-generated data has great potential for the detection of new species in Canada and the documentation of their potential spread throughout the country. Based on evidence from public-generated digital photos, the author reports on the presence of a large and conspicuous rove beetle in Canada, which is native to Central Europe and was introduced to New England more than 50 years ago. Based on available evidence, this beetle entered Canada during a recent and substantial range expansion to the northeast and west of its introduction point in Massachusetts.

Abstract

© Brunke A.The adventive rove beetle Ocypus nitens (Staphylinidae: Staphylininae) is newly recorded in Canada (Ontario) and the state of Vermont, and additional range expansion is documented. The updated distribution of this large, conspicuous species is based mostly on data from digital photographs posted by users of the online community BugGuide. All available data are summarized and made available as a DarwinCore dataset, and an updated distribution map is provided. Citizen-generated distributional data continues to be a valuable ally in the detection of adventive insects and the study of their distributional dynamics.

Publication date

2016-11-16

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