Recorded and potential distributions on the iberian peninsula of species of Lepidoptera listed in the Habitats Directive

In this paper, using data on the known Iberian distributions of 10 species of Lepidoptera listed in the Habitats Directive referenced to the 10 x 10 km UTM grid, the authors determined their potential distributions and their relationships with selected bioclimatic factors associated with mean temperature and precipitation using Ecological Niche Factor Analysis. Scores for Specialization and Marginality were determined in order to evaluate the relationships between the predictions of the model and climatic factors. The number of squares on the Iberian Peninsula in which the species are recorded and those squares predicted to be favourable for these species were determined if they matched the network of Protected Natural Areas. This suggested that a further eight 10 x 10 km squares should be included in the protected natural areas. The results also indicate that climate determines the distributions of most of the species. Although overall there is a close association between the observed and predicted distributions, the less thoroughly documented geographic ranges depart from this pattern.