Distribution and intensity of butterfly faunistic studies in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea & Hesperioidea)

Abstract

The distribution of the sampling effort of current faunistic data on the butterflies in the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands has been analysed, using 10 and 50 km UTM grids. The number of records in the database ATLAMAR1 was selected as the sampling effort unit. Three approaches were attempted to evaluate the geographic coverage of the data: First, based on criteria of minimal conditions. Second, based on indirect estimators derived from 25 10 x 10 km UTM squares whose butterfly fauna is believed to be well sampled. Finally, accumulation curves were used to evaluate the completeness of faunistic knowledge in the 50 km UTM squares.

The different approaches were broadly coincident in indicating an adequate degree of knowledge for 6.8% of the 10 x 10 squares, and 62.3% of the 50 x 50 UTM squares. Approximately one third of the territory is characterised by a remarkable scarcity of butterfly records. This is especially true for some regions, namely Galicia, Castilla-La Mancha and inland Andalusia.

The results provide a reliable and objective basis for subsequent work on butterfly diversity, biogeography and conservation within the Iberian area.