A Checklist of the Heteroptera species and Their Distribution in the Guelmim–Oued Noun Region, Southern Morocco

Abstract

The Guelmim–Oued Noun region in southern Morocco represents a biologically rich, yet relatively underexplored area, offering a valuable opportunity for the study of Heteroptera insect species. This study aimed to enhance our understanding of the composition, distribution, and ecological significance of Heteroptera species within this region, through a rigorous field-based investigation utilizing standardized and advanced entomological methodologies. Representative study sites were carefully selected to capture the ecological variability of the region. Fieldwork was conducted over two consecutive years (2023–2024), employing precise trapping techniques to ensure comprehensive sampling. A total of 81 individuals, representing 15 species across 6 tribes, were identified. Numerical and biogeographical analyses of the collected data revealed notable patterns in species richness, spatial distribution, and the presence of regionally exclusive taxa that contribute to the uniqueness of the local ecosystem. The results obtained underscore the ecological value and faunal distinctiveness of the Guelmim–Oued Noun region, highlighting its role as an important reservoir of Heteroptera biodiversity in North Africa. The study provides new scientific insights into the taxonomy and ecology of true bugs in arid and semi-arid environments and contributes foundational data essential for future biodiversity monitoring and conservation strategies. Moreover, the findings offer a valuable framework for investigating the influence of environmental variables on insect community structure in desert ecosystems.

Keywords:

 Heteroptera, ecological systems, biodiversity, southern Morocco, Guelmim–Oued Noun region.