INSECTA: Aquatic insects of Puerto Rico: a list of families (In Spanish)

Resumen

Studies on aquatic insects in Puerto Rico began early last century. Most taxa have been well documented; however, we lack information on some taxa and there is no single document containing all the scattered information. These are major obstacles for the study of insects on the island. Here we reviewed data collected in published articles, graduate theses, university courses, environmental impact studies and reviewed material deposited in the Museum of Zoology at the University of Puerto Rico. The objective was to compile the first list of aquatic insect families of Puerto Rico. Overall, 61 families belonging to seven insect orders were found. The best known orders were Ephemeroptera, Trichoptera and Odonata. The most diverse orders were Diptera, followed by Coleoptera and Hemiptera. Despite its small size, Puerto Rico is a diverse island compared to the remaining Greater Antilles. This study is the first attempt to develop a list with all information available and contribute to advance our knowledge of aquatic insects. In addition, we hope to aid decision makers and encourage ecological and biogeographical studies on aquatic ecosystems in Puerto Rico.