Edge effects on the blowfly fauna (Diptera, Calliphoridae) of the Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Anthropogenic influence significantly impacts blowfly diversity and abundance at the edge of the Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro. The study identified 17 species of Calliphoridae, with species richness and diversity highest in deeper forest areas (1,200 m from the edge) and lowest near the forest edge (A), where urban and synanthropic species like Chrysomya megacephala dominated. Abundance was strongly correlated with temperature, peaking at the forest edge but with reduced diversity. Conversely, points further into the forest (B and C) showed higher diversity, with Laneela nigripes and Mesembrinella peregrina serving as indicator species for less disturbed environments. The research highlights how edge effects and human influence shape blowfly communities in protected areas.

Gadelha, B. Q., Ribeiro, A. C., Aguiar, V. M., & Mello-Patiu, C. A. (2015). Edge effects on the blowfly fauna (Diptera, Calliphoridae) of the Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Brazilian Journal of Biology, 75(4), 999–1007. https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.05614