Palaeoecological perspectives in dominican amber

Abstract

Palaeoecological and palaeobiogeographical aspects of Dominican amber are discussed based on the known insect fauna. Topics covered are examples of speciation, extinctions, longevity as well as associations between insects and plants, insects and vertebrates and various arthropod groups. Examples of camouflage, oviposition and predator-prey associations are presented. Ecological and medical implications from recently discovered vector-parasite associations (malaria, trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis) are discussed. Paleosymbiotic associations, with examples of phoresis, mutualism, parasitism and pathogens, are examined. Insects in Dominican amber, together with their cohabitants, can assist in determining specific habitats and reconstructing ancient landscapes. © 2010 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.