Marine Insects and Their Biogeography

Flashcards for reviewing key concepts from the lecture on marine insects and their biogeography, focusing on species diversity, adaptations, and ecological challenges.

What is the estimated global total of cryptic insect species?

21 million!

What is the significance of the Benguela Current in biogeography?

It influences marine species diversity and distribution.

Which family do water beetles belong to in the context of osmoregulation?

Dytiscidae.

What challenges do marine insects face in terms of osmoregulation?

They struggle to cope with salinity levels in marine environments.

What unique adaptations do inland brine flies exhibit?

They are capable of osmoregulation and survive in hyper-saline conditions.

What do Ochthebius beetles primarily graze on in their rock pool habitats?

Biofilms.

How have some insect species aligned their speciation with the variability of salinity?

Sympatric speciation allows coexistence with varying salinity levels.

What is the primary ecological niche occupied by marine insects according to the text?

They typically exist in marginal ecological zones.

What is the estimated number of named insect species compared to total estimated species?

≈ 1 million described species compared to an estimated total of 5.5 million.

What type of habitats do aquatic genera Enochrus and Hygrotus preferentially occupy?

Inland saline habitats.

How do water skaters like Halobates adapt to their environment?

They lay eggs on coastal rocks and scavenge in the surface film.

What has led to increased populations of marine insects, according to recent studies?

Increased oceanic microplastic debris enhancing oviposition.

What major barriers do related genera face in colonizing salt waters?

Unlike specific genera, related genera typically do not colonize saltwater.