BioMonitor4CAP Picture Gallery
Insect Pictures Peru
Discover the beauty of South American insects
Our project partners in Peru captured stunning macro photographs of local insect species.
Take a closer look and explore the rich biodiversity of South American fauna through their lens.

Phoridae
Insects of the family Phoridae, also known as phorid flies, can play various roles as pollinators, participating in nutrient recycling and organic matter decomposition. as well as parasitoids of other insects, for example within ants, they could be natural controllers or regulators of leafcutter ant populations. Distributed worldwide in diverse habitats so, at the agro-ecological level their coexistence between insects, farmers, crops and farm management is very important

Acrididae
The Acrididae family, commonly known as grasshoppers and locusts, play a crucial role in agroecology as both pests and beneficial organisms. While some species can devastate crops during outbreaks, they also serve as natural pest controllers by preying on weeds and controlling plant populations. Their distribution spans globally, with various species adapting to diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to agricultural fields, influencing ecosystem dynamics and agricultural productivity.

Bostrichidae
The Bostrichidae family, or branch and twig borers, contribute to agroecology by aiding in decomposition and nutrient recycling. While some species are pests, infesting stored wood and timber, others play vital roles in forest ecosystems by breaking down dead wood. They are distributed worldwide, inhabiting forests, woodlands, and urban areas, where they fulfill ecological functions such as nutrient cycling and aiding in the renewal of plant communities.

Chaetodus
Chaetodus is a genus of beetles in the family scavenger scarab beetles. It is suggested that carrion and dung are the main food source which contributes to soil nutrient cycling. They are distributed in the Neotropics, and can be found in Central and South America.

Formicidae
The Formicidae family (ants), hold significant agroecological importance as both pests and beneficial organisms. They contribute to soil health through nest-building activities, aiding in nutrient cycling and soil aeration. Some species act as predators, controlling pest populations, while others cultivate fungi, benefiting plant growth. Distributed globally, ants inhabit diverse ecosystems, from forests to urban environments, influencing soil structure, plant diversity, and pest regulation, thus playing a crucial role in agricultural ecosystems.

Gryllidae
The Gryllidae family (Crickets) are pivotal in agroecology, serving as prey for various predators and contributing to nutrient cycling through their feeding habits. Found globally in grasslands, forests, and urban areas, they influence soil health and plant diversity. Their roles extend beyond food webs; their chirping behavior also aids in plant pollination and soil aeration. Furthermore, crickets are integral in cultural and culinary practices, valued as protein-rich food sources in many regions.

Melolonthinae
The Melolonthinae subfamily (Scarab beetles) are essential for agroecological systems, playing key roles in soil health and plant vitality. These beetles promote soil aeration, nutrient recycling, and organic matter decomposition, vital processes for maintaining soil fertility. Distributed worldwide, they inhabit various ecosystems, including agricultural fields, where their activities benefit crop growth and overall ecosystem resilience. However, some species can pose challenges as agricultural pests, requiring integrated pest management strategies for effective control.

Miridae
Insects of the family Miridae (Plant bugs) hold significant importance in agroecology due to their dual roles as pests and beneficial predators. While some species damage crops, others contribute to natural pest control by preying on harmful insects. This predator-prey dynamic helps maintain ecological balance in agricultural ecosystems. Widely distributed across diverse habitats worldwide, including agricultural fields, forests, and gardens, they play crucial roles in influencing crop health and productivity. Understanding their ecological roles is essential for sustainable pest management practices

Nabidae
Insects of the family Nabidae (contains Damsel bugs) are valuable predators in agroecosystems, aiding in the biological control of pest insects. By preying on various agricultural pests, they contribute to the regulation of pest populations and reduce the need for chemical pesticides. Distributed globally across different habitats, including agricultural fields and natural ecosystems, they play integral roles in maintaining ecosystem balance and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Pseudomyrmex
Insects of the family Pseudomyrmex (Twig ants) contribute to agroecology through their interactions with plants and other organisms. These ants protect plants from herbivores and pathogens, promoting plant health and diversity. Additionally, they play roles in seed dispersal and pollination, aiding in ecosystem regeneration and resilience. Distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, they form symbiotic relationships with plants, influencing ecosystem dynamics and contributing to the sustainability of agricultural landscapes.

Scutelleridae
Shield-backed bugs (Scutelleridae) are beneficial insects in agroecology, primarily known for their pest control capabilities. These bugs prey on various agricultural pests, helping to manage pest populations and reduce crop damage. Distributed worldwide across different habitats, including agricultural fields and natural ecosystems, they contribute to the ecological balance of agroecosystems. Understanding their roles and implementing conservation measures can enhance their effectiveness as natural pest control agents and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Camponotus
The ants from genus Camponotus are important in agroecology, aiding in seed dispersal, soil aeration, and pest control. Their nest-building activities enhance soil fertility, while their foraging behavior helps disperse seeds, contributing to plant diversity. Additionally, they prey on pest insects, regulating populations in agricultural ecosystems. Found worldwide in various habitats, including forests and urban areas, they play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning and agricultural sustainability.

Cerambicydae
Beetles from the family Cerambycid, commonly known as long-horned beetles, play important roles in agroecology as both pests and beneficial organisms. While some species damage timber and trees, others aid in nutrient recycling and decomposition. Their larval stages often develop in dead or decaying wood, contributing to soil fertility and ecosystem dynamics. Distributed globally in forests, woodlands, and urban areas, they influence forest health and contribute to the functioning of forest ecosystems.

Odontomachus bauri
Trap-jaw ants (Odontomachus) play important roles in agroecology, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. These ants are efficient predators, helping control pest populations and contributing to the overall balance of agricultural ecosystems. Additionally, their foraging behavior aids in nutrient cycling by decomposing organic matter and redistributing nutrients in the soil. Understanding their ecological functions is crucial for implementing effective pest management strategies and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in regions where they are prevalent. As a curiosity, the mandible of the species Odontomachus bauri is the second fastest predatory appendage in the animal kingdom, 2300 times faster than the blink of a human eye.