The distribution and ecology of Gnophos dumetata Treitschke, 1827 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) in the Burren of western Ireland

Abstract

The geometrid moth Gnophos dumetata Treitschke, 1827, is restricted within Britain and Ireland to the Burren, Co. Clare. A study was initiated by the Burren National Park to investigate the distribution and food plant choice of the species in order to determine if it would be affected by management of scrub. The distribution of the species was investigated by trapping of adults and searching for larvae. This was combined with historical records to determine that the species is confined to the limestone pavement in the eastern Burren between Corofin and Gort. The larvae show a preference for small, isolated plants of Rhamnus cathartica L. growing over bare pavement. Our conclusion is that the species will not be affected by planned management which is aimed at removing dense invasive scrub from grassland areas.