Survey of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve for Rare Insects
Idaho Conservation Data Center. 2008. Survey of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve for Rare Insects. Idaho Department of Fish And Game. Boise, ID
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (CRMO) contains potential habitat for several species of conservationally important invertebrates. Surveys were conducted for 3 species known to occur in or adjacent to CRMO: the Idaho dunes tiger beetle (Cicindela arenicola), the Idaho point-headed grasshopper (Acrolophitus pulchellus), and the blind cave leiodid beetle (Glacicavicola bathysciodes). Blind cave leiodid beetles were found at 2 previously reported localities (Beauty and Boy Scout caves) and at 1 new location (Last Chance Cave). Other cave invertebrates of interest were also observed. The Idaho dunes tiger beetle was not detected, but potentially suitable habitat was found. Neither the Idaho point-headed grasshopper nor suitable habitat (based on other reports of this species) were observed. CRMO contains important habitats for invertebrates that should be provided consideration in resource management decisions. Recommendations toward invertebrate conservation include: Evaluate insecticide transport from adjacent agricultural lands; promote research, inventory, and monitoring of cave invertebrate faunas; minimize disturbance (e.g., recreational uses, livestock) to areas potentially inhabited by Idaho Dunes tiger beetle; and consider efforts to restore unique habitat (e.g., sand dunes, kipukas) that are overrun with invasive weeds.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Idaho Conservation Data Center
- Date of Issue
- 2008
- Publisher
- Idaho Department of Fish And Game
- Units
- CRMO , UCBN
- Keywords
- Beetle, CAVE, Conservation, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, grasshopper, Habitat, harvestmen, Invertebrate, Kipuka, millipede, mite, Presence (Biodiversity), Resource Management, Sensitive Species, Taxa Links To References, xeric shrub community