Summary
Spiders and ground beetles of the former airfield Johannisthal (Berlin-Treptow) 1992 and 2006.
In 2006, the spider and ground beetle fauna of the former airfield Johannisthal was surveyed again
after 14 years. 170 spider species and 95 ground beetle species were recorded. The spider fauna is
remarkably rich in species; the number of threatened species (28) is higher than in other dry
grasslands in Berlin. Additionally, three species were recorded in Berlin for the first time. The
ground beetle fauna of the former airfield contained eight threatened species, three of which are
critically endangered.
Compared to 1992, the results of the survey of 2006 indicate a positive development of the area.
Both animal groups exhibit a general trend towards increased species diversity, numbers of
threatened species and numbers of spider and beetle species characteristic of dry, open habitats.
Species typical of agricultural fields and field boundaries decreased in numbers.
The numbers of xerophilic, threatened species showed a remarkable increase, especially in spiders.
The populations of a number of critically endangered species have grown considerably. Several
threatened ground beetle species have established new populations on open sandy sites. The habitat
management has apparently been very successful.
Ruderalized sites and small groups of trees add to the structural diversity of the area and lead to an
increase in species richness, especially in spiders. However, important habitat types for the most
valuable spider and ground beetle species are dry grasslands with patches of open soil and open
sand with sparse vegetation.
(Page 55)
|
|