Determination of insect species in forest nurseries in the Western Black Sea Region

In this study, a survey of insect species were carried out in forest nurseries of the Western Black Sea Region. Seven forest nurseries in five provinces were sampled using pitfall traps, sweep net, light traps, pheromone traps and visual control methods monthly between May and September during 2021 and 2022. Then collected samples were put into plastic containers and tubes for transportation. The adult insect samples were morphologically described under stereo microscope. The aphid species and oak gall wasp were also identified by molecular methods. Identification of samples was made by referring to the relevant literature and scientists. The aedeagi, female genitalia and body parts of some species of some species were photographed using a stereo microscope and scanning electron microscopy. In total, 710 individuals were collected representing 105 species, 77 tribes, 92 genera, 50 subfamilies, 26 families, 16 superfamilies, and 4 orders. The oak gall wasp and aphid species were identified as Cynips quercusfolii and Cinara cedri with a total of 99,69%; 97,87% identity, respectively. The most abundant orders were Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera. While the highest number of individuals was recorded in pheromone traps, the lowest number of individuals was recorded in pitfall traps. In 2021 and 2022, a total of 288 and 422 specimens were collected, respevtively. Results of Shannon-Wiener and Simpson diversity indices showed that the highest species diversity was recorded in Muzaffer Büyükterzi and Çayırköy Forest Nurseries with 3,231 and 0,946 respectively. Margalef's richness index was found to be the highest in Muzaffer Büyükterzi Forest Nursery (9,360). The Simpson's dominance index was found to be highest in Gölköy Forest Nursery with 0,169. The Shannon and Simpson evenness results showed that the highest evenness was recorded in Çayırköy Forest Nurseries with 0,936 and 0,661 respectively. As a result of the study, 13 species were new record for the insect fauna of the Western Black Sea Region. In addition, Thanasimus femoralis was reported for the first time in Türkiye