o_19ko2dt161ng2j4e1tgnoqv1s45a.pdf

ARTHUR Y.C. CHUNG (2007)
STATUS OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY IN MALAYSIA &
THREAT ASSESSMENT OF PLANT SPECIES IN MALAYSIA
AN OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH ON BEETLE
DIVERSITY & TAXONOMY IN MALAYSIA
Arthur Y.C. Chung
ABSTRACT
Beetles form the most diverse insect order, with an estimated 400,000 species worldwide
representing two-fifths of all insect species. Although some research has been carried out on
beetle diversity in Malaysia, because of their high diversity, our understanding of their
taxonomy, diversity, species assemblages and ecology is still far from adequate. Even at the
family level, there are 166 families worldwide, more than half of which are recorded in Malaysia.
Diversity in the beetle order is not only observed in numbers. Size, shape, colour and occurrence
in various habitat types are also diverse in beetles. The smallest, biggest and bulkiest insects
are beetles. Many small beetles are found in leaf litter and soil, and these are relatively difficult
to extract and study. Different methods have to be used to conduct a comprehensive survey of
beetles because of their occurrence in various types of habitats. The number of researchers
who are working on beetle diversity, however, is very low, making it difficult to achieve an
adequate knowledge of this insect group. Basic information on beetle diversity is very important,
as this can contribute valuable information that can guide the formulation of conservation
measures. In addition, many beetles are essential from an ecological and economic point of
view. For example, the pollinating weevil, Elaeidobius kamerunicus, has contributed
significantly to increased yields in the palm oil industry in Malaysia. In view of this, there is
a need to encourage more researchers to work on beetles, such as through the provision of
adequate funding. Having good and well-managed collections of beetles is crucial in facilitating
research on beetle diversity and taxonomy. In addition to this, the use of information technology,
such as databasing and electronic imaging, will enhance such efforts. There is also a need for
networking and collaboration within agencies in Malaysia, as well as with foreign institutions,
as a platform for the sharing and exchange of information that will further contribute to our
understanding of beetle diversity at the local, regional and global level.
INTRODUCTION
Biodiversity has emerged at the centre of one of the most contentious global debates of this
century. The debate often focuses on tropical rainforests, which are extremely diverse. Insects
are one of the most important and dominant inhabitants of the rainforest. Approximately threequarters
of all species worldwide are insects, and more than half are found in tropical rainforests.
Forest Research Centre, Forest Department, P.O. Box 1407, 90715 Sandakan, Sabah; Tel: 089-537886; Fax: 089-
531068; Arthur.Chung@sabah.gov.my
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