Species composition of phyllophagous Lepidoptera (Insecta, Lepidoptera) in beech-hornbeam forests of the Krasnodar Territory, Russia

The fauna of Lepidoptera in the Northwest Caucasus remains insufficiently studied, hindering comprehensive biodiversity assessment and the development of effective forest protection measures against phyllophagous insects. Research in key forest formations, such as beech-hornbeam stands, becomes particularly important amidst potential threats from invasive species. This study aimed to investigate the species composition of the most significant pest families within the order Lepidoptera in the beech-hornbeam forests of the Krasnodar Territory. The research was conducted in beech-hornbeam stands with an admixture of oak. Insect collection employed standard entomological methods, including sweep netting, visual inspection for preimaginal stages, and sampling of foliage for laboratory rearing of leaf-mining moths (Gracillariidae). Species identification was based on morphological characteristics. A total of 65 lepidopteran species, belonging to six families, were identified, with a dominance of tortrix moths (Tortricidae) and geometrid moths (Geometridae). Species complexes associated with oak, beech, and hornbeam were analyzed and classified by type of damage (leaf rolling, mining, skeletonizing). The highest species richness was recorded on oak (52 species), followed by beech (42 species), and hornbeam (33 species). Both polyphagous species (e.g., Lymantria dispar) and narrowly specialized species (e.g., Cydia fagiglandana on beech) were identified. An increased abundance of the gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) was also noted. The data obtained systematically organize information on phyllophagous Lepidoptera in the Gelendzhik forestry for the first time. The results indicate high biodiversity and a complex trophic structure within the pest complexes of the primary forest-forming species. The findings of this work provide a foundation for monitoring and developing comprehensive measures for the protection of woody plants in the region.

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