LEPIDOPTERA OF THE MYKHAILIVSKA TSILYNA NATURE RESERVE

Abstract

This work presents the results of the analysis of literature sources and the results of own research on the Lepidoptera of the Nature Reserve “Mykhailivska tsilyna”. In total, during 2019-2023, about 800 specimens of lepidopterans were collected on the reserve territory. The work presents a generalized list of lepidopteran species documented on the territory of the reserve which is supplemented by the results of research over the past three years. Since the Nature Reserve foundation in 2009, livestock grazing has been banned and haying areas have been limited, which has led to significant overgrowth and forestation of reserve’s territory. In some places the crown closure of the new stands reaches more than 70%. The data obtained by us on the group of pyralid butterflies of the reserve indicate a small proportion of the steppe component in their fauna. Unfortunately, we are not able to compare the data over a long period of time - before 2015, even if there were any studies on this group, they were of a non-systematic nature. Currently, the fauna of the lepidoptera registered by us in the Nature Reserve “Mykhailivska tsilyna”, as well as those reported in the literature, includes 340 species from 18 family groups. The work planned in the territory organization project to reduce tree growth and remove forest strips are likely to reduce biodiversity in this area. At the same time, further overgrowth of the steppe will reduce the number or loss of butterfly species whose development is associated with steppe vegetation. In our opinion, it is necessary to stop and prevent further forestation of the reserved area. This can be done by applying one of the following methods: periodic mowing of the steppe areas that are still preserved; moderate cattle grazing; release of a wild population of large ungulates into the territory and ensuring their living conditions; periodic controlled burning of certain areas in the fall. However the current environmental legislation prohibits the use of all of the above methods on the territory of nature reserves.