Progress on the Sino BON-Insects diversity monitoring network

Author of the article:WANG Ming-Qiang, LUO A-Rong, ZHOU Qing-Song, DOUGLAS Chesters, CHEN Jing-Ting, GUO Shi-Kun, YANG Juan-Juan, GUO Peng-Fei, LI Yi, ZHANG Feng, PENG Yan-Qiong, LUO Shi-Xiao, GE Si-Qin, BAI Ming, XIAO Zhi

Author's Workplace：Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

Key Words：insect diversity monitoring network; planning; research progress

Abstract：This paper reviews current progresses on insect diversity monitoring in China and gives a brief introduction to the planning and progress of the Insect Diversity Monitoring Network, China (Sino BON–Insects). Because insects play a key role in ecosystem processes it is important to monitor their diversity over the long term. Different monitoring technologies are required to improve the efficiency of such monitoring. Considering both the trend and cost of long-term monitoring, we propose incorporating major monitoring technologies, equipment and management into a long-term monitoring platform in Sino BON–Insects. Researchers will use this platform to assess the current status of insect diversity, analyze population and community-level trends, and carry out relevant studies on insect diversity or ecology. We plan to implement Sino BON–Insects across major eco-regions, forest types and local assemblages, set up sampling sites, and design monitoring protocols, standards and technologies to target functional groups, before carrying out both short-term insect diversity research projects and long-term monitoring. A range of equipment required to monitor insects effectively is discussed. Results from Sino BON–Insects will help analyze and assess changes in insect diversity across China and identify the key drivers of such changes. This will lead to scientific reports and suggestions on the conservation management and the sustainable use of insect diversity, which might also contribute to policy making and highlight the fundamental role insects play in supporting both ecosystem function and the economy in China.