DIVERSITY AND ECOLOGY OF BEES, PREDATORY WASPS AND BUTTERFLIES: CONTRIBUTIONS FROM CCBA-UADY

Abstract

Background. The diversity and ecology of various groups of insects has not yet been fully studied in Mexico. Objective. Present a review of the contributions to science, which have been made on the diversity and ecology of bees, predatory wasps and butterflies. Methodology. The contributions of scientific articles and book chapters (33) of the Department of Zoology of the Campus of Biological and Agricultural Sciences of the Autonomous University of Yucatán were reviewed. Main findings. There is greater knowledge about the diversity of species including new registers, complementary contributions include ecological topics of the species on the lifestyles or eating habits and nesting sites of the species and there are studies about floral fragrances. In addition, in bees, there are contributions on the temporal variation in diversity, the effects of natural and human disturbances on the diversity of species. Implications. The knowledge generated is essential to establish conservation strategies due to the importance of these insects as key species in ecosystems. Conclusion. The contributions to science are mainly studies on biodiversity, in addition to some contributions from the ecology of the species, which are important for proposals for the sustainable management and conservation of pollinators species, pest controllers, biondicators and for the study of species as a window to climate change.