Orthopteran Species Assemblage as Indicators of the Effectiveness of Environmental Restoration in Northeastern Patagonia (Argentina)

ABSTRACT

Arid Patagonia is the southernmost desert in the world and hosts numerous endemic species. However, more than 90% of its surface area is currently affected by desertification, which has prompted the development of restoration practices aimed at mitigating these impacts. In the Lower Chubut River Valley (VIRCH), reduced vegetation cover and increased soil erosion have intensified runoff and sediment transport during rainfall events, leading to sediment discharge into the river and affecting both water supply and agricultural activities. Given that orthopterans are abundant and sensitive to environmental change, this study evaluated the potential of orthopteran assemblages as bioindicators of restoration success in northeastern Patagonia. A subsoiler plowing treatment was implemented to improve environmental conditions and reduce sediment inputs. Using a BACI design with sampling conducted over 4 years (1 year before and 3 years after the intervention), orthopteran assemblages were analysed using multivariate and univariate approaches. Differences in species assemblages between treated and control sites confirmed the effectiveness of the restoration treatment. Treated sites exhibited higher soil moisture and greater vegetation greenness, and orthopterans were more abundant, particularly Miogryllus patagonicus (Cadena‐Castañeda, Castelli and Cheli). In contrast, Microgryllus pallipes (Philippi) dominated control sites characterized by senescent vegetation. This study represents the first evidence that orthopteran assemblages can serve as useful bioindicators of restoration processes in South America, highlighting the ecological relevance of orthopteran with epigean habits. Furthermore, our findings provide new tools that may improve conservation and restoration practices in Patagonian ecosystems.