Social insects of the atlantic forest

Abstract

Despite the outstanding diversity and ecological relevance of social insects in most terrestrial ecosystems, current knowledge of these insects in the Atlantic Forest is still somewhat dispersed in literature. In this chapter, we offer an overview covering the origin, evolution, diversity, functional composition, and distribution of all the eusocial species of ants, bees, wasps (Hymenoptera), and termites (Blattaria, Isoptera) known to occur in the Atlantic Forest. We compiled a database consisting of 1401 species distributed in 189 genera of the two insect orders assessed here. A total of 1250 species of social hymenopterans and 151 species of termites were here recorded for the Atlantic Forest. Additionally, we update the information regarding the state of knowledge, diversity gaps, and prospects for the eusocial insects of the Atlantic Forest. Considering the impressive richness presented in this compilation and the crucial role of social insects in the main ecological processes on Atlantic rainforest landscape, it became urgent to target those organisms in conservation actions and research. A thoughtful study on current, past, and future species distribution of social insects in the Atlantic Forest could indicate priority areas for conservation and endangered species in different scales, including in face of climate change.