Climatic Niche, Altitudinal Distribution, and Vegetation Type Preference of the Flea Beetle Genus Arsipoda in New Caledonia (Coleoptera Chrysomelidae)

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The distribution of many beetle species remains poorly known, and the knowledge of their ecological requirements is even more fragmentary. Starting with published data on the flea beetle genus Arsipoda in New Caledonia, we investigated the habitat preferences of the 21 species from this area. These species are significantly associated with vegetation growing on volcanic substrates. A few widespread species are also present in secondary vegetation, such as savanna and brushwood. We estimated current suitable areas for the genus using ecological niche models, and identified possible under-sampled areas, mainly in the central sector of the main island. ABSTRACT: New Caledonia is one of the major biodiversity hotspots. The flea beetle genus Arsipoda (Coleoptera Chrysomelidae) is present with 21 species, all endemic. We investigated, using GIS analyses and ecological niche models, the habitat preferences of these species in terms of vegetation types, altitude, and climate, and assessed the adequacy of knowledge on the spatial parameters affecting the distribution of the genus in New Caledonia. Altitude and geology seem to play an important role in shaping species distribution. Volcanic substrate allows the growth of ultramafic vegetation, which includes most of their host plants. From a biogeographic and conservation perspective, our results report a deep link between Arsipoda species and their habitats, making them particularly sensitive to environmental modifications.