On the importance of tree species for diversity of deadwood beetles

Expansion of ancient Hyrcanian forests on the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea and northern slopes of the Alborz Mountain chain with no effect of glacial period, causes not only a high diversity on tree species (Flora) but also has sheltered high diversity of animals and insects (Fauna), which is still neglected and its high value on biodiversity is not stated yet. In this investigation, 301 species of saproxylic beetles and bugs were collected from four species including oriental beech, chestnut leaved oak, common hornbeam and Caucasian alder. Most species were found in the beech traps. Most types of indicators, showing a statistical preference for one of the four tree species, were found in the oriental beech followed by oak. The early results of this study indicate the uniqueness of the deadwood fauna which confirms the importance of these natural forests for the preservation of global diversity, specifically in the temperate forests.