Influence of abiotic factors and vegetation type on the abundance of Photinus palaciosi adults (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, Mexico

Fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) have tourist-cultural importance due to their bioluminescence. In the "Sanctuary of the Fireflies" (Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala) there are populations of Photinus palaciosi. Annually this site is visited by a large number of tourists. However, ecological studies on the biology of the species and abiotic factors that affect the abundance of its populations are lacking. The abundance of adults in 3 types of vegetation was compared and the relationship of abiotic factors on the local abundance of this species was analyzed; average size and sex ratio were recorded. Samplings were made in oak, pine and mixed (pine-oak) forests, with aerial nets. Three hundred ninety- seven specimens (386 males and 11 females) were collected. The temperature, humidity, dew point and the heat index affected the abundance of the populations of the species. There was no effect of vegetation on abundance and body size. The sexual proportion showed male-biased and differences between the oak forest (frequency lower than expected) and the mixed one presented an opposite pattern. It is necessary to continue with long-term studies to understand the state of the populations and propose conservation measures.