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Summer Newsletter 2001(Volume 2, Number 3)

NOTE ON CADDISFLIES

Chuck Parker

The insect Order Trichoptera, or caddisflies, consists of an estimated 50,000 speciesworldwide, with approximately 1700 species known from North America north ofMexico. One hundred sixty-five have been identified from Great Smoky MountainsNational Park, out of possibly 300 species that may eventually be found here. Thiscompares with a total of slightly more than 400 species presently known from Ten-nessee as a whole. Caddisflies are very abundant in the Smokies, but are rarely noticedby most Park visitors. Adult caddisflies are nocturnal and closely resemble moths.Larval caddisflies are aquatic, living in virtually all of the Park�s 2000 miles of streams,as well as in the springs, seeps, ponds, and lakes. Some caddisfly larvae are free-living,ranging about the rocks and moss in the streams searching for food. Many other larvaebuild shelters fixed to rocks, logs, or other stable substrates. These shelters may bemade almost entirely of a sheet of silk and placed over a slight depression on thesubstrate surface. Others build delicate tubes of silk that are kept open by the current,which also brings food to a net which they construct. The larvae then simply grazetheir meals from particles trapped by the nets. Larvae of the family Hydropsychidaebuild sturdy retreats of sand particles glued together with silk, securely fixed to rocksand logs often in the strongest currents. At the front of the retreats the larvae spin�fish nets� of silk, which are strong enough to withstand the fast current. The wholestructure is sturdy enough that if removed carefully from the water, it will be perfectlypreserved. Because of the large mesh of the nets, these larvae feed on larger particlesthan do the larvae whose nets are more delicate and have smaller mesh sizes.

Many caddisfly larvae build portable cases that they carry about with them, en-larging the cases as they grow. Cases are characteristic of genera and occasionally ofspecies. They may be made from either sand or other hard materials, or from leaf orstick pieces cut to the proper size and shape by the larvae and fitted together in genus-or species-specific patterns. Some larvae begin life making cases out of sand grains,and as they grow, change to making cases out of plant material. Helicopsyche borealismakes a coiled case of sand that looks just like a snail shell. Ceraclea ancylus makes aflattened case of very fine sand grains and has an extended hood with lateral flanges.The larva�s head and legs are completely covered, concealing it from potential preda-tors while it grazes on periphyton (algae, diatoms, and fungi) which grows on thesurfaces of rocks.

Caddisflies are being investigated for the ATBI by the Aquatic Orders, TaxonomicWorking Group (TWIG). In 1999 and 2000, we relied on student assistants JohnCooper, Rich Harrington, and Dan Jones to make collections throughout the Park andto sort specimens to Order. Specimens then were sent to John Morse (ClemsonUniversity), Ollie Flint (Smithsonian Institution), Dave Etnier (University of Ten-nessee), Wayne Gall (Buffalo Museum of Science), and Chuck Parker (USGS) foridentification and enumeration.

Chuck Parker, EntomologistUSGS, Biological Resources DivisionChuck_Parker@usgs.gov

CONTENTS

Caddisflies 1President�s Corner 2Annual Conference 2Volunteer Action 3Taxa Table 3Ectoparasites 4Fern Foray 5Point Reyes N.S. 5ATBI Plots 6Scorpionflies 8Cave Arthropods 9Flies-Diptera 10Education Committee 11Emily Jones 11Sesiids 12

Trond Larsen -- masthead photo

Limnephilus sp. makes its case of plant material,such as twigs and leaves.

ATBI QUARTERLY

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Lepidostoma sp. cuts symmetrical pieces ofleaves for its case.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Natural History Assoc., Discover Life in America, and Friends of the Smokies

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PRESIDENT�S CORNERFrank Harris

Recently, we held our spring DLIA Board meeting. Usually Board meetings are lessthan exhilarating experiences; however, this one was an exception. The first item wasthe introduction of Emily Jones, our newly hired coordinator for development. Ex-pect to hear more soon from Emily (see page 11). She gives new meaning to the termenthusiasm.

Committee reports indicated activity across nearly all fronts. John Morse(sciencecommittee) reported that 16 new seed-money projects were selected for funding thisyear; a step closer towards learning about all the species in the Park.

Of particular note was the report from the nominating committee that reflectedcareful thought and dedication to seek out new Board members who will bring addi-tional strength in business, national contacts and science credentials to our effort. Weare in the process of inviting these new members now.

Finally, we looked ahead to the annual meeting scheduled for November 29-30followed by the winter Board meeting on December 1, 2001.

The meeting ended, and we emerged into the warm May afternoon, excited aboutwhat we are doing and re-energized to move forward. I hope you have a safe andproductive summer and that some of your time is spent in the Park.

Frank HarrisOak Ridge National Laboratoryharrisf@ornl.gov

Science Advisory Panel

Dr. Dan Janzen, University of PennsylvaniaDr. Tom Lovejoy, The World BankDr. Ron Pulliam, University of GeorgiaDr. Peter Raven, Missouri Botanical GardenDr. Edward O. Wilson, Harvard University

Board of Directors

Dr. Frank Harris - President and ChairOak Ridge National Laboratory

Dr. Peter White - Vice-ChairUniversity of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Mary H. Johnson - Vice-ChairInterstate Development Company

Tom Kiernan - SecretaryNational Parks Conservation Association

Charles Maynard - TreasurerFriends of Great Smoky Mountains NP

Peter Alden, Concord, MA

Glenn Bogart, Pi Beta Phi Elementary School

George Briggs, North Carolina Arboretum

Dr. Norm Johnson, Ohio State University

Dr. Meredith Lane, Biodiversity Group,Academy of Natural Sciences

Dr. Rex Lowe, Bowling Green State University

Dr. John Morse, Clemson University

Dr. John Pickering, University of Georgia

Stephanie Ramsey, Center for Disease Control

Dr. Susan Riechert, University of Tennessee

David Scanlon, Great Smoky MountainsNatural History Association

Dr. Mike Sharkey, University of Kentucky

Elizabeth Skillen, University of Georgia

Staff:Jeanie Hilten, Administrative OfficerEmily Jones, Coordinator of Development

Jeanie Hilten

Mark your calendars now so you won�t miss the ATBI gathering this winter at thenewly refurbished Glenstone Lodge in Gatlinburg, TN. General sessions will beheld Thursday, November 29 and Friday, November 30. Scientists will present re-ports on research of the past year, including those from mini-grant recipients. Teachers,students, and volunteers also are invited to give programs on their involvement withthe ATBI.

Exhibits and displays will be open for viewing all day Thursday and Fridaymorning. A reception and fellowship time is planned for Thursday evening. TheDiscover Life in America Board will meet Saturday morning, December 1.On Wednesday, November 28, DLIA photographers plan to have pre-conferenceworkshops and field trips. For further information about the photo activities con-tact Kevin Fitz Patrick, media3@gte.net

More details will be forthcoming in the autumn ATBI Quarterly. Persons inter-ested in helping coordinate conference details (exhibits, registration, door prizes,etc.) please contact me at <jeanie@discoverlife.org>.

Jeanie HiltenDLIA Administrative Officer

2001 ATBI-DLIA ANNUAL CONFERENCESET FOR NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 1

www.nps.gov/grsmwww.discoverlife.orgwww.friendsofthesmokies.orgwww.SmokiesStore.org

Mission StatementDiscover Life in America will develop a model for research in biodiversity. DLIA willuse this knowledge to develop and disseminate information to encourage the discov-ery, understanding, preservation and enjoyment of natural resources.

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Jeanie HiltenEquipped with talent, training, and dedication, Discover Lifein America volunteers are ready to advance the All Taxa Biodi-versity Inventory in the Park. Our volunteers are truly indis-pensable partners. There currently are about 70 folks who aremembers of this year�s teams, plus others who are waiting inthe wings for further orientation and involvement in upcom-ing events and continuing projects. Volunteer time from De-cember of 2000 to May of 2001 totaled nearly 1600 hours.

The structure of DLIA�s volunteer organization is builtupon several �Project Teams:� Science/Taxonomy (team leaderTom Rogers) -- organizes work centered on bio-blitzes andother events such as scientists� specially requested searches (e.g.snowbank myxomycetes). Also, Dr. Chuck Parker is currentlytraining three student volunteers, Derrick Oster, Derek Ratliff,and Mary Williams. These trainees sort insects to the ordinallevel. Trail Surveys (team leader Jim Lowe) -- develops meth-ods and provides training and crews for inventory, collecting,and mapping of trees, ferns, snails, beetles, etc. using the Park�strail system. The Fern Forays, part of the activities of thisvolunteer group, are led by Dr. Patricia Cox of the Universityof Tennessee and will take place June 23, July 14, and July 21.Adopt-a-Plot (no one team leader yet, but special thanks toJim Burbank, Bob Hightower, Jimmy Breeden, Jim Lowe, MaryWilliams, Becky Fox, and Mary McCord) -- assists Ian Stockswith collecting from the Malaise, pitfall, and beetle traps atthe 11 instrumented ATBI plots throughout the Park. Photog-raphy and Art (team leader Kevin Fitz Patrick with help fromRebecca Schiflett) -- organizes the efforts of those who wishto donate their photos, artwork, graphics, and scientific illus-trations for use in the ATBI for web pages, curriculum materi-als, and publications. Communications (special thanks toRuthanne Mitchell, Beverly Shiels and Eric Guinn) -- helpswith a wide variety of needs for database update, website devel-opment, office systems and other computer technical matters,and publications. Education/Outreach (team leader Judy Dulin)-- coordinates programs for teachers, students, and the com-munity about the ATBI in the Smokies, and implements theDiscover Life in America Education Plan. Scientist Host/Hos-pitality (special thanks to Mary McCord, Jim Burbank, andMarion Schlauch) -- check on, make improvements, and cleanthe Cosby House and Cades Cove House rented by DLIA fromthe Park for use by researchers. The team will also coordinatelodging for scientists in local homes near the Park.

There are from 10 to 30 volunteers in each team. We in-tend to have each volunteer in action as soon as possible. Thegoal is to have a team leader for each group who will act ascoordinator. To participate in any of the above programs, con-tact me at jeanie@discoverlife.org or 865-430-4752.

Jeanie HiltenDLIA Administrative Officer

VOLUNTEER ACTION

Becky Nichols, EntomologistGreat Smoky Mountains National ParkBecky_Nichols@nps.gov

The All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory aims todiscover as much of the life in Great SmokyMountains National Park as possible.Scientists will gather information on eachspecie�s abundance and distribution whileintegrating ecology, taxonomy, andeducational opportunities.

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Lance Durden

It is probably safe to assume that mostof us who have enjoyed fieldwork or hik-ing in the Smoky Mountains also haveunintentionally provided bloodmeals toectoparasites during these activities. Ex-cept in unusual cases, the ectoparasitesin this area that opportunistically feedon humans are common, widespread spe-cies such as the American dog tick, thelone star tick, and one or two species ofchiggers. Humans may find these ecto-parasites annoying, particularly given thefact that some of them can transmitpathogens such as the causative agent ofRocky Mountain spotted fever. However,most of the ectoparasite species that para-sitize vertebrates in the Smoky Moun-tains are associated with native mammalsand birds, with lesser diversity on rep-tiles and amphibians. Far from beingsolely a cause of pathology or an incon-venience to their hosts, parasites are nowrecognized as integral components ofhealthy ecosystems. They can drive hostevolution to promote community biodi-versity and increase genetic diversity inhost populations. Most ectoparasites are host specific tovarying degrees. For example, somefeather mites and chewing lice often arehost specific not only to a single speciesof bird but also to a particular body partof that bird. Other ectoparasites are lesshost specific and typically may be foundon different species belonging to the samehost genus. For example, certain fleas andsucking lice typically parasitize Peromyscusspp. (deer mice, white-footed mice, cot-

ECTOPARASITE BIODIVERSITY

Solenopotes binipilosus (male),a sucking louse that parasitizeswhite-tailed deer.

Tricholipeurus lipeuroides (male),a chewing louse that parasitizeswhite-tailed deer.

Microphthirus uncinatus (female),the world�s smallest species oflouse, is an ectoparasite of flyingsquirrels (Glaucomys spp.).

ton mice, etc.). Further, some Peromyscus-associated ectoparasites also occur on arelated sigmodontine rodent, the goldenmouse, Ochrotomys nuttalli. While true ectoparasites feed directly ontheir host, there are other invertebrates(usually arthropods) with different feed-ing modes that can co-infest the samehost. Some of these organisms are facul-tative hematophages which feed either onhost blood or on other resources, such asectoparasites or other organic matter. Oth-ers may use the host for transportation(termed �phoresy�) in order to reach aricher food source such as a mammal, abird nest, or even a fungus. Still othersare mainly nest inhabitants (nidicoles). Preliminary studies show that ectopara-sites and their host-relationships are verydiverse in the Smoky Mountains. Al-though relatively few ectoparasite collec-tions have yet been made in the Smokies,several new records of species from thePark and from Tennessee and North Caro-lina have been documented. In addition,one flea species new to science has beencollected. Given that fleas are a relativelywell-known group, this hints at the po-tential diversity of other ectoparasitegroups, especially parasitic mites, whichis a much more diverse and less studiedgroup. Although the distributions of mostof the host vertebrate species that inhabitthe Smokies extend beyond the Park andbeyond the southern Appalachians, all ver-tebrate species in the Smokies should becarefully examined for ectoparasites. In-tuitively, it might be assumed that the geo-

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graphical distribution of a host-specificectoparasite mirrors that of its host andthat any vertebrate species outside of thePark is not worth examining for ecto-parasites. However, many host-specificectoparasite species occupy only a frac-tion of the range of their host(s). Forectoparasites such as fleas and certainmites, which also have non-parasitic lifestages, this may be caused by the effectsof different climatic, edaphic, or otheroff-host factors. This phenomenon alsooccurs in permanent ectoparasites, suchas some species of sucking lice, whereexternal factors would seem to have littleinfluence. Although this note has considered ec-toparasites of vertebrates, there is also adiverse array of ectoparasites andphoretic arthropods (mainly mites) as-sociated with invertebrates that also de-serve serious study. Any field workers inthe Park who find ectoparasites on theirstudy animals are urged to collect themby preservation in ethanol with an ap-propriate data label. I am most interestedin the ectoparasites of mammals and inthe fleas and ticks of birds.

Lance DurdenInstitute of Arthropodology& ParasitologyGeorgia Southern Universityldurden@gsvms2.cc.gasou.edu

All photos courtesy of Oscar PungGeorgia Southern University

THREE DAYS OFFERN FORAYS IN THE PARK

Patricia Cox

As a component of the ATBI, a re-evaluation of thepteridophyte flora is being conducted. Currently thereare 64 species of ferns reported from Great SmokyMountains National Park. The purpose of this studyis five-fold: 1. to locate and validate herbarium voucherspecimens for all species reported from the Park; 2. torevisit known fern localities to verify the plant�s occurrence in the Park; 3. to searchfor new populations of species occurring in the Park and to find new additions tothe pteridophyte flora; 4. to produce a database of current information on thepteridophytes; 5. to map the distribution of ferns in the Park.

Mapping the locations of species in the Park is the focus of the three days ofresearch this summer. We will use the trail system as our transects and every 200meters we will stop and make a 15 meter round plot and record which ferns arepresent, the percent coverage of each species, the associated tree species, the latitudeand longitude, and elevation. The last two entries will be made from a GPS (globalpositioning system) unit. Specimens will be collected only if they cannot be identi-fied in the field. The dates of the forays are June 23rd, July 14th, and July 21st. Thefirst foray will take place in the vicinity of Metcalf Bottoms and the second athigher elevations near Newfound Gap. My goal is to field a minimum of fourteams/day. If anyone is interested in participating, please contact Jeanie Hilten atjeanie@discoverlife.org.

Patricia B. CoxDepartment of BotanyUniversity of Tennesseepcox@utk.edu

NPS

Pho

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Botrichium sp.

POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE PLANS AN ATBI

Sarah Allen

Point Reyes National Seashore, and other members of the non-profit Tomales Bay

Watershed Council to embark on an ATBI of Tomales Bay, a watershed within the

boundaries of the Seashore. Community members, other agencies, and organiza-

tions are working with the Seashore and are beginning to formulate a plan for

conducting the ATBI. The plan includes identifying the spatial and biological bound-

aries of the project, education linkages with local schools, proposed partners,

products and funding. The Pacific Coast Learning Center will facilitate the inven-

tory by providing housing, office space, and computer and lab facilities for scien-

tists. This community- based endeavor may serve as a model for expanding the

ATBI to other areas of the Seashore.

Sarah Allen, Science Coordinator

Point Reyes National Seashore

Sarah_Allen@nps.gov

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heath balds remain a mystery to ecolo-gists. The final plot, in Cades Cove, islocated in an abandoned agriculturalfield that floods seasonally. The soil onthis plot was derived from limestone,which makes it more fertile than mostareas outside of Cades Cove.

Most plots are 1 hectare(ha)squares (100 meters X 100 meters). Toprovide information to other scientistsabout the structure and species compo-sition of plant communities within theseplots, we collected extensive data withina 0.1 ha (20 m X 50 m) long-termmonitoring plot embedded within eachATBI plot. These data include diametersof all trees, densities of woody saplingsand seedlings, herbaceous species cover,volume and decay stage of down dead-wood, and stand ages. Presently, we arecollecting multiple soil samples fromeach plot to determine pH, organic mat-ter content, and nutrient availability.This information will allow us to betterunderstand how these factors vary withvegetation across entire plots and howthis variability influences the distribu-tion of species.

Michael Jenkins, EcologistGreat Smoky Mountains National ParkMike_Jenkins@nps.gov

Michael Jenkins

During the summer of 1999, Vegeta-tion Monitoring staff at Great SmokyMountains National Park (GRSM) es-tablished 19 plots to serve as samplingsites for the ATBI. The locations ofthese plots were carefully selected tooffer a cross-section of biotic commu-nities within GRSM and target uniqueand threatened communities. Three ofthe plots (Clingmans Dome and bothplots on Mt. Le Conte) are located inspruce-fir forests where most largeFraser fir (Abies fraseri) trees have beenkilled by the balsam woolly adelgid(Adelges piceae). Acid deposition and poorair quality also impact this communitytype. Three other plots (Double Spring,Indian Gap, and Trillium Gap) are lo-cated in high-elevation beech forests,which is one of the most rare and en-dangered community types in the south-eastern United States. The trees in theseforests are almost all American beech(Fagus grandifolia), a species that has beendecimated by beech bark disease. Exten-sive rooting by European wild boar (Susscrofa) has also seriously damaged theserare forests.

A plot is also located in AlbrightGrove, one of GRSM�s finest old-growth forests. This forest containsmajestic tulip poplar (Liriodendrontulipifera) and eastern hemlock (Tsugacanadensis) trees and its unique structurecreates conditions that favor a highly di-

VEGETATION AND ECOLOGYOF THE ATBI PLOTS

verse flora and fauna. The plot locatedat Oconaluftee is in a bottomland hard-wood forest, which is among the mostuncommon forest types in GRSM (lessthan 2% of the Park).

Three plots (Twin Creeks, Purchase,and Tremont) are in second-growth coveforests and placed across a 3500-footelevation gradient within this foresttype. The Twin Creeks and Purchaseplots have very diverse overstory spe-cies compositions, while the overstoryat the Tremont plot is nearly pure tulippoplar. Two other plots (Cataloocheeand Ramsay Cascade) are located in ar-eas of mature oak forest. TheCataloochee plot was once dominatedby large American chestnut (Castaneadentata) trees, which are now large logsscattered across the forest floor. Largehemlock and silverbell (Halesia tetrapteravar. monticola) trees dominate the SnakeDen Ridge plot, which is located on asteep and rocky talus slope.

Four of the most interesting sitesare located in non-forest areas. GregoryBald and Andrews Bald are both largeopen areas that are dominated by grassspecies. Because they are surrounded byforest, they offer unique habitat formany organisms. Brushy Mountain isone of the Park�s heath balds, which arecovered with a nearly impenetrable shrublayer consisting largely of rhododen-dron. The origin and persistence of

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ATBI PLOT LOCATIONS-GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

ATBI Plot Name Community Type Elevation (ft)

Albright Grove Old-growth cove forest 3390Andrews Bald Grassy bald 5760Brushy Mountain Heath bald 4810Cades Cove Old field 1710Cataloochee Mature mesic oak forest

(formerly American chestnut dominated) 4530Clingmans Dome Spruce-fir forest 6380Double Spring High elevation beech forest 5600Goshen Prong Second-growth rich cove forest 2940Gregory Bald Grassy bald 4940Indian Gap High elevation beech forest 5490Mt. Le Conte Boulevard Spruce-fir forest 6010Mt. Le Conte2-West Point Spruce-fir forest 6430Oconaluftee Second-growth bottomland hardwood forest 2010Purchase Knob Second-growth cove forest 5020Ramsay Cascade Mature dry oak forest 2950Snake Den Ridge Hemlock forest 3260Tremont Cove forest/second-growth tulip poplar 1500Trillium Gap High elevation beech forest 4600Twin Creeks Second-growth cove forest 1950

FOREST COMMUNITY TYPES AND ELEVATIONS OF THE ATBI PLOTS

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Trond Larsen

On my first day of exploration in Great Smoky Moun-tains National Park, I encountered a fantastic and bizarreinsect whose two pairs of long, orange and black mottledwings framed a recurving abdomen equipped with a scor-pion-like bulb. This was my first experience with ascorpionfly (Order Mecoptera), and the find representedthe second specimen of its species for the Park and theonly male. Despite its fearsome appearance, the male�stinger� is really a harmless pair of genital forceps usedto grasp the female during copulation.

This ancient group of insects is represented by fivefamilies in North America, although the vast majoritycomprise the hangingflies of the family Bittacidae andthe scorpionflies of the family Panorpidae. Both bittacidsand panorpids are slow, diurnal flyers primarily inhabit-ing the dense herbaceous understory of moist woodlands.The hangingflies are named for their peculiar habit ofhanging by their front legs from the underside of leaves, aposition in which they wait to snare flying insects withthe raptorial tarsi of their hind legs. Scorpionflies are quitedifferent in appearance and feed primarily on dead anddying insects using their elongated mouthparts. Somespecies of scorpionfly feed on the prey of spiders and candisentangle themselves from the web using a salivary se-cretion. The larvae live near the surface of the soil, feed-ing chiefly on dead insects and other animal matter. Thesnow scorpionflies, family Boreidae, do not have functionalwings and are found mainly on snow and moss in the win-ter.

Those who study Mecoptera have focused on sexualselection studies, examining the unusual behavior of manyspecies in which the males offer nuptial gifts of carrion orinsects to the females in exchange for a chance to copu-late. Some believe ancestral Mecoptera to be the predeces-

sors to Neuroptera (lacewings, fishflies, antlions, andsnakeflies), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths),Trichoptera (caddisflies), Diptera (flies), and Sipho-naptera (fleas).

The southern Appalachians represent the center ofNorth American Mecoptera diversity, although their dis-tributions are not clearly defined. Great Smoky Moun-tains National Park encompasses a very high relative di-versity of Mecoptera. Except for one unusual species col-lected only within a 25-meter radius on a single ridgetop,most of the species of Mecoptera are quite widely distrib-uted across the Park. However, the elevational ranges ofspecies in the Park are quite restricted. Data from my sum-mer collecting expanded the Park�s collection to 13 spe-cies, although difficult identifications of singleton femalespecimens complicate this number, which may be higher.Of this total, two species appear to be undescribed basedon available keys; one is a new hangingfly record and oneis a second scorpionfly record for the Park. The latterappears to be the beginning of an autumnal species emer-gence that has been documented elsewhere for Mecopterain the Appalachians, but has not been well collected inGreat Smoky Mountains National Park. Two species ofsnow scorpionflies have also been recorded in the Park,with the second record coming just this last year duringthe ATBI plot sampling. There may be between 10 and 15species of Mecoptera not yet discovered in the Park, andwith continuing collecting and observation of natural his-tory, much more will be discovered about this fascinatinggroup of insects.

Trond LarsenNational Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institutionlarsen.trond@nmnh.si.edu

Bittacus pilicornis Westwood (family Bittacidae) Panorpa helena Byers (family Panorpidae)

SEARCHING FOR SCORPIONFLIES

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Jonathan Mays

Caves� are they harsh environments devoid of life or are theyhidden pockets rich in biodiversity? As one would suspect, whencompared to their above ground, or epigean, counterparts, cavesare much lower in number of species; however, they offer a uniqueenvironment consisting of relatively constant physical condi-tions, such as temperature and light. This unique environmentallows for a distinct fauna, members of which are rarely found inabove-ground habitats mere meters away.

Caves in the Appalachian Mountains contain some of thehighest species compositions of troglobites, or obligate cavedwellers, in the United States. Great Smoky Mountains Na-tional Park boasts 11 known caves within its boundaries, a fewbeing some of the deepest in the eastern United States. Rich-ard Wallace documented some of the Park�s cave fauna in the1980s, and an overall cave invertebrate inventory was completedby Will Reeves in 2000. Other than these inventories and a fewstudies on specific taxa, little is known regarding the biology ofcave arthropods in the Smokies. Life histories of most cave dwell-ing arthropods are poorly known and techniques for quantita-tively sampling arthropod populations in cave environments arefew. Studies of this nature in the Park are non-existent.

This project focuses its efforts on one specific Park cave.Gregory�s Cave, found in the Cades Cove area, offers a uniqueenvironment for a quantitative study and was selected for sev-eral reasons. Gregory�s Cave has been gated since the 1950s,which protects the arthropod fauna from frequent human dis-turbance. More importantly, Gregory�s Cave is an ideal shapeand size. At just less than 200 meters in length, it is smallenough to allow a thorough sampling effort of the arthropodfauna but large enough to support a diverse assemblage ofarthropods. Furthermore, Gregory�s Cave has received priorattention in the form of spot sampling inventories and researchdevoted to the amphipod Stygobromus fecundus (Amphipoda:Gammaridae) unique to this cave.

A standardized, quantitative study of Gregory�s arthropodfauna has been underway since the fall of 1999. After prelimi-nary sampling and a review of the literature, systematic sam-pling of the cave was begun in May of 2000. Sampling takesplace once each month and consists of a two-day period wherethe cave is meticulously searched by a crew of three people. Atotal of 14 zones, each 10 meters in length, are examined insequence. Each zone is further sub-divided into three sections(right wall, floor, left wall) with each member of the three per-son crew being responsible for one of these sections.

Much has already been learned from this study. Anundescribed species of trichopetalid millipede belonging to the

genus Scoterpes, first discovered by Will Reeves, currently is beingdescribed by Dr. William Shear at Hampden-Sydney College,VA. Many new records of arthropods in Gregory�s Cave havebeen found, such as another millipede, Sigmoria fumimontis(Polydesmida: Xystodesmidae), an opilionid (daddy longlegs)species, and several spider species such as Liocranoides coylei (Araneae:Tengellidae) and Maymena ambita (Araneae: Symphytognathidae)to name a few. Also, much is being learned concerning the natu-ral history of species such as Nesticus barrowsi (Araneae: Nesticidae),a troglobitic spider, including items of prey found in webs, aver-age number of eggs per egg case, and typical number of instarsbefore spiderling emergence. Using standardized, repeatable meth-ods, relative population sizes and microhabitat preferences arebeing estimated along with the compilation of a comprehensivespecies list, none of which would be possible using traditionalmethods of one-time counts and spot searches.

Another purpose of this study is to monitor the rimstonepools in Gregory�s Cave for the presence of Stygobromus fecundus.Since little is known regarding this rare amphipod, any informa-tion this study provides, especially seasonal occurrence or distri-bution within the cave, may prove useful for Park managementand for future studies. Twelve monthly samples will provideinformation regarding fluctuations of the arthropod assemblageover a one-year period along with life history information con-cerning selected arthropod species.

This study ultimately seeks to establish a systematic cave-based protocol to provide a detailed record of species and theirrelative abundances and to establish methods that will be usefulin ecological studies of other cave systems. Furthermore, spe-cies records from this study will add information to the ATBIand provide the Park with ecological information which mayimprove future management decisions.

Jonathan MaysWestern Carolina UniversityMaysfish1@aol.com

THE ARTHROPODS OFGREGORY�S CAVE

Author sampling one of the rimstone pools inGregory's Cave for aquatic arthropods.

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Brian Wiegmann

True flies, the insect order Diptera, are extremely diverse andabundant in GRSM. Flies are found in every habitat in the Parkand they are surely one of the largest groups of insects found inthe Smokies. Many flies are aquatic or semi-aquatic as larvae andso they flourish in the Park�s many rivers, fast-flowing streams,seeps, and soggy bottoms. Many are also either plant feeders,such as leaf miners or fruit and seed feeders, or are parasites ofplant feeding insects; therefore, their diversity and abundance isintimately associated with the large diversity of flowering plantsfound in the Park. Also, many are found in soil and decaying leaflitter, or feed on fungus. Early estimates suggest 500-800 spe-cies of flies in the Park, but fly taxonomists beginning work onthe ATBI now expect that the number could easily reach 1500-2000 species.

The Diptera Taxonomic Working Group (TWIG) has beenactive in the ATBI for three years. Dipterists were among thefirst working groups to hold a Nature Quest field day in May1999. Twenty-two dipterists worked over two days to initiatesampling, identify important habitats for additional collectingand discuss plans to circulate material among specialists. A po-tential new species of flower fly in the genus Xylota was collectedduring the Nature Quest and several species of scathophagidflies were considered new Park records. Dipterists commonlyfind new species when working on material from undisturbedand understudied habitats like the Smokies � there are undoubt-edly many more new species to be found in the Park.

Because of their abundance and diversity, flies are a diffi-cult group to survey. A standard collection technique is the useof a Malaise trap � a flight intercept trap that looks like a smallpup tent. These traps bring in large samples that must be sortedand then processed by specialists, and identifications almostalways require access to the primary taxonomic literature and tolarge reference collections.

The Diptera TWIG has established a central sorting anddatabasing effort organized by Dr. Peter Adler and graduateassistant, Will Reeves at Clemson University. Samples are pro-cessed from this facility with the goal of sending material totaxonomists and then receiving data back for entry into a rela-tional database. There are more than 600 species names in thedatabase, with many more samples awaiting processing. Ongo-ing efforts to collect and identify some of the Park�s more promi-nent dipteran groups, such as Empididae (dance flies),Dolichopodidae (long-legged flies), Syrphidae (hover flies), andTachinidae (Tachina flies � parasites of Lepidoptera and otherinsects) should yield a steady increase in the inventory of SmokyMountain Diptera.

Brian WiegmannDepartment of EntomologyNorth Carolina State Universitybwiegman@unity.ncsu.edu

Long-legged fly (Dolichopodidae,Condylostylus sp.)

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Author collecting flies

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FLIES IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK:ATBI PROJECT RESEARCH

11

I am very happy to be a part of DLIA. The ATBI project isimportant to the preservation and conservation of this Parkwe love so much. The implications of this study are farreaching. It will give those touched by the experience anexciting new way to look at the world in which we live.

My interest in Great Smoky Mountains National Parkis hereditary. I grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, as the childof a mother who dearly loved these mountains and passedthat along to her children. My mother and uncle spent theirchildhood summers in a cabin nestled between mountainsnamed Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The mountain cabinwas a source of joy (and income) during the depression andit served as a place of peace during World War II. It alsoheld many a house party of dear friends during the 20�s30�s and 40�s.

I am privileged and honored to have the opportunity toput my skills in development to work in support of theATBI. I have worked in fundraising, development, market-ing and public relations for non-profit organizations andin media relations in the private sector. I hope to use someof that experience to help focus national attention on theATBI. DLIA has the capacity to secure funding from na-tional foundations and to attract private and corporate do-nors regionally, nationally, and perhaps internationally. I lookforward to meeting you and welcome your input and ideas.

Emily Jones, DLIA Coordinator of Developmentc/o Friends of the Smokiesphone (865) 453-2428, fax (865) 453-5785,toll free (800)845-5665fotsej@icx.net

NOTE FOR CONTRIBUTINGAUTHORSThe deadline for the fall issue is September 5th. The Quar-terly editors encourage authors to contribute short news sto-ries (from 200 to 700 words). Please send your documentsas either MS Word or Word Perfect files. Photographs ordrawings may be sent as .TIF files (300 dpi) or as high reso-lution .JPG files attached to your e-mail message. Please supplycredits for photos and drawings.

Ruthanne Mitchell, Newsletter Coordinatorcwmitchell@ntown.com

Judy Dulin

The Education Committee of Discover Life in America,an impressive group of local educators and researchers,has produced an action plan. Their goals include (1) toeducate people about taxonomy and biodiversity, (2)to educate and train teachers, researchers, Park person-nel, and volunteers, (3) to develop future scientists andnaturalists, and (4) to identify resources needed to ac-complish other goals.

The committee has already accomplished many ofits objectives including incorporating All Taxa Biodi-versity Inventory learning into existing environmentaleducation programs, providing interpretive displays inGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, providing out-reach programs to the community, providing ATBI re-search training to teachers, and providing opportuni-ties for students to become more involved in the project.Some of the most exciting events from this past yearwere teacher in-service training in both Tennessee andNorth Carolina, the development of Parks As Class-rooms Units and Smoky Mountain Field School classeswith biodiversity emphasis, and the opening of a Biodi-versity Discovery Center at Oconaluftee Visitor Cen-ter. Another accomplishment for the committee was thecreation of ATBI student intern positions at GreatSmoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and summereducational opportunities at the Eugene Huskey Envi-ronmental Center in Sevier County.

The committee is rapidly making progress and isexpected to meet all projected goals and objectives inthe next three years. If interested in seeing the entireaction plan or hearing more about the committee�sprojects, please contact the committee co-chairpersonsGlenn Bogart<bogartg01@ten-nash.ten.k12.tn.us> orDr. Susan Riechert <sriecher@utk.edu>.

Judy DulinParks As Classrooms Project CoordinatorPi Beta Phi Elementary, Gatlinburg TNdulinj@ten-nash.ten.k12.tn.us

DLIA EDUCATION COMMITTEEREPORTS ON ACTION PLAN

GREETINGS FROM EMILY JONES,DLIA COORDINATORFOR DEVELOPMENT

12

There probably are 20 to 30 times as manymoths as there are butterflies and skippersin the Smokies. The lepidopterists who areinvolved in the ATBI currently estimate per-haps as many as 3500 species live here. One interesting group of moths flyalmost entirely in the day; these are the sesiids (family Sesiidae). Some ofthese animals often are seen visiting garden flowers. The adults are very fastfliers and probably are important pollinators of some plants. They are tooerratic and too fast to effectively hand-net; fortunately, they can be attractedby synthesized chemicals that imitate the pheromone scent of the female moths.Dr. Jerome Grant and his colleagues at the University of Tennessee�s Depart-ment of Entomology and Plant Pathology are doing just that. Small plasticphermone traps are hung out in ATBI plots and elsewhere. They are checkedregularly by Park and Tremont staff, and other collaborators.

Several new Park records for the sesiids have been found, and one beauti-ful orange species, Synanthedon fulvipes, is a significant range extension. Thisspecies is found across Canada and south into the United States as far asnorthern New Jersey and Pennsylvania - until it turned up in pheromone trapsat Tremont. Digital photos of the specimen were sent by Paul Super (theTremont Science Education Specialist), to lepidopterists in South Carolinaand California, and they confirmed the identification. This species is the 1141stmoth species recorded at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Keith LangdonGreat Smoky Mountains National ParkKeith_Langdon@nps.gov

Discover Life in America1314 Cherokee Orchard Rd.Gatlinburg, TN 37738

ATBI QUARTERLYNon-Profit Org.US POSTAGE

PAIDKnoxville, TN

Permit No. 127

www.discoverlife.org

DISCOVER LIFE IN AMERICAT-Shirts, Mugs, and

Mouse Pads for Sale

Show your support for the All Taxa Biodiversity In-

ventory (ATBI)! A colorful biodiversity design cre-

ated by the Great Smoky Mountains Natural His-

tory Association is beautifully depicted on T-Shirts,

mugs, and mouse pads. The items were pro-

duced by the folks at Over Your Head Productions

for Discover Life in America. Items may be pur-

chased from Jeanie Hilten.

T-Shirts come in S, M, L, XL, and XXL and

are printed on a white or natural colored cot-

ton shirt and cost $12.00 for S-XL and $14.00

for XXL. Mugs are $6.00 and mouse pads are

$8.00. Please include a donation to cover the

cost of shipping. To order, call 865-430-4752 or

e-mail jeanie@discoverlife.org.

SESIIDS, ORCLEAR-WING MOTHS

Keith Langdon

www.discoverlife.org

Synanthedon fulvipes

Paul

Sup

er