Unexpected diversity of moths ( Lepidoptera) in the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle (Prov. Bolzano-South Tyrol, Italy)

As part of comprehensive surveys of the moth fauna (Lepidoptera excl. Papilionoidea) of the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, a total of 513 species from 48 families were recorded from May 2021 to November 2022. Of the ten most diverse families, Noctuidae encompass 100 species, followed by Geometridae (65 species), Tortricidae (53 species), Crambidae (32 species), Gracillariidae (29 species), Erebidae (29 species), Pyralidae (29 species), Gelechiidae (22 species), Nepticulidae (19 species), and Notodontidae (15 species). Phyllocnistis valentinensis M. Hering 1936 (Gracillariidae) and Apodia martinii Petry 1911 (Gelechiidae) are recorded for the first time in Italy. 13 additional species are first confirmed records for South Tyrol. Sixteen species are migratory, and further 11 species are neozoa, originating from other continents. In addition, 17 species of butterflies are listed from the study area. A detailed analysis of ecological guilds and the degree of phagism of all species underline the importance of semi-natural habitats. The most diverse habitats are dry grassland (263 species) and different forest habitats, especially oak forests (270 species). In contrast, the importance of intensively used garden areas for moths is low.