LANDSCAPE-DEPENDENT VARIABILITY OF MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS IN CARABUS GRANULATUS L., 1758 (COLEOPTERA, CARABIDAE)

Abstract

We examined morphological variations in Carabus granulatus L., 1758 (Coleoptera,
Carabidae) populations across different habitats in the Kaluga Region. Discriminant analysis
revealed subtle but significant morphological differences between populations, with pronotum
length being the key discriminating trait. Morphological variability was primarily driven by
historical microevolutionary processes rather than direct phenotypic adaptation to specific
habitats. Local ecological factors, such as microclimate and resource availability, had a
greater influence on morphometric traits than the general habitat type. Populations in the
eastern part of the Kaluga Region exhibited smaller body sizes due to intensive forest use.
Fragmented forests displayed notable differences in morphometric traits, likely resulting from
founder effects. Beetles from various localities showed distinct patterns: populations in the
Oka River valley populations were smaller, while park habitats exhibited increased
variability. Populations in Kaluga occupied an intermediate position between wild and
disturbed forests. The study emphasizes the importance of considering both phylogenetic and
ecological factors in understanding morphological differences in ground beetles, highlighting
the complex interplay between historical, environmental, and anthropogenic factors shaping
population-level morphological variation in C. granulatus.