Dung beetle distribution, abundance, and diversity along an elevation gradient in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda: A preliminary survey

Dung beetle species richness in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, is highest at lower elevations (1800m) and declines with increasing elevation, up to 2800m. This pattern contradicts the expectation of even distribution along elevation gradients, supporting previous findings on uneven dung beetle diversity. The study used baited pitfall traps across transects in different elevation bands, recording 162 individuals belonging to eight species categories based on morphological traits. These results provide preliminary insights into the ecological factors influencing dung beetle distribution in high-altitude tropical forests.

Muhirwa, F., Rwanda Abias Maniragaba, Abias Maniragaba, & B A Kaplin. (2018). Dung beetle distribution, abundance, and diversity along an elevation gradient in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda: A preliminary survey. Unpublished. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.10841.62563