Ecological-and-Faunistic overview (Coleoptera, Carabidae) on Reclaimed Coal Open Pit Dumps

Abstract

In this paper, the specific features of the species and ecological composition of ground beetles on the reclaimed dumps of the Kedrovsky coal open pit mine (Kemerovo Region, Russia) are considered. It is noted that 47 species of ground beetles were found on the dumps themselves, 44 in the control; in this case, the species and ecological structure of carabido complexes is changing considerably as long as the dumps are restoring. 39 species of ground beetles were recorded on the young dump, most of which belong to biotopical groups of open habitats (steppe, meadow-steppe), while their overall dynamic density is the lowest compared to other sites. The lowest number of ground beetle species is 33. The control plot is characterized by the domination of species of forest biotopical preferences both in species and abundance. It is shown, that during the succession the structure of the carabidofauna varies towards establishing the community that is characteristic for a specific type of zone vegetation.