Bugs Under the Sun: the Influence of Solar Infrastructure on Insect Communities

Bugs Under the Sun: the Influence of Solar Infrastructure on Insect Communities

Presenter(s)

Claire Qua

Comments

10:45-12:00, Kennedy Union Ballroom

Description

As renewable energy is growing in its popularity for both industrial and residential use it is my goal to help fill the gaps in knowledge regarding the influence of solar infrastructure on insect communities. Insects are not only crucial pollinators for the flowers we love, but also the agriculture we depend on. Additionally, a particular emphasis was placed during this study on Orthopterans (specifically grasshoppers) as they are prolific in nature at these sites as well as in their extensive predatory behavior. Sweep net samples were collected at Topaz Solar Farm in San Margarita California within the two studied microhabitats (array aisles, and intentionally planted reference areas). Each sample was sorted morphologically to order and subsequently counted to measure abundance and order richness. Statistical analysis using including T-Tests, GLMM, and NMDS were conducted when appropriate to the common orders found. There was a statistical significance indicating a greater overall insect abundance in the reference area affirming my hypothesis. Of the studied orders no additional differences were seen aside from block location of Dipterans and microhabitat preference in Hemipterans. In regard to Orthopteran size, stage of development and pink morph prevalence results are forthcoming as data collection is underway. I anticipate a difference in tibia and overall length as well as mass indicating larger individuals within the reference area. The results exemplify the differences between microhabitats demonstrating the effectiveness of reference areas in mitigating possible land degradation that may occur when developing a solar farm. Solar prairies are a beneficial collaboration of renewable energy and ecological stewardship and are a significant step in the right direction.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Independent Research

Primary Advisor

Chelse M. Prather

Primary Advisor's Department

Biology

Keywords

Stander Symposium, College of Arts and Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Scholarship

Bugs Under the Sun: the Influence of Solar Infrastructure on Insect Communities

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