Edge Effects of an Ecological Gradient on Beetle Functionality: A Case Study in Amaranthus hypochondriacus.

Ecological gradients are important for species in nature. However, there is a need to better understand how varying levels of disturbance influence the functional roles of beetle species within a crop area characterized by different types of natural vegetation. Here, we test such effects by studying a perturbation gradient – an ecological gradient that transitions from a natural area near the ecotone of a deciduous forest (a transitional zone between crops and forest) to a crop. The beetle specimens were collected along transects parallel to the ecotone, and their functional diversity was assessed using a clustering analysis and functional indices. We identified 21 species of beetles, and the highest species richness was observed in the Chrysomelidae family. A functional analysis revealed two main groups, including primary consumers (phytophages) and entomophagous beetles. The hedge area exhibited functional richness similar to the natural area. However, the functional evenness was consistently low across all the areas. The presence of natural habitats positively influenced beetle functionality and potentially impacted the abundance of deleterious species of beetles and their establishment at a low spatial scale. These findings underscore the importance of considering different spatial-scale-dynamics in agroecosystems and highlight the potential role of natural habitats in fostering functionality to indirectly control pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]