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Erosion of Biogenically Weathered Clarens Sandstone by Lichenophagous Bagworm Larvae (Lepidoptera; Pyschidae)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 March 2007

D. C. J. Wessels  and
L.-A. Wessels
D. C. J. Wessels
Affiliation:
Department of Botany, University of the North, Private Bag XI106, Sovenga, 0727, Republic of, South Africa
L.-A. Wessels
Affiliation:
Department of Botany, University of the North, Private Bag XI106, Sovenga, 0727, Republic of, South Africa
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Abstract

Lichenophagous larvae of a bagworm moth species, associated with endolithic lichens occur in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, South Africa. Endolithic lichens weather Clarens sandstone in the park by dissolving the cementing material of the sandstone. Bagworm larvae use such loosened quartz crystals to construct the bags in which they live. By erosion of the weathered sandstone, the bagworm larvae contribute to pedogenesis in the park at an estimated rate of 4.4 kilograms per hectare per year. In addition, bagworm larvae utilize endolithic lichens as a food source and contribute to dispersal of the lichens. The larvae further contribute an estimated 200 g of organic matter per hectare per year to the park and partake in the cycling of elements in the micro-ecosystem.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Lichenologist , Volume 23 , Issue 3 , July 1991 , pp. 283 - 291
Copyright
Copyright © British Lichen Society 1991

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