Uncover a wealth of knowledge on butterflies, nature, and conservation through Göran Sjöberg’s dedicated research and publications
Göran Sjöberg’s work on butterflies and nature conservation spans a wide array of subjects, from Linnaeus’s historic classifications to modern ecological surveys of regional species. His research delves into both the scientific and cultural significance of butterflies, addressing taxonomy, conservation challenges, and even their ties to mythology. Below, you can explore his publications and projects.
Franzén, M., Francioli, Y., Sjöberg, G. et al. Positive shifts in species richness and abundance of moths over five decades coincide with community-wide phenotypic trait homogenisation. J Insect Conserv 27, 323–333 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10841-023-00458-y
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This study examines changes in moth communities over 50 years in central Sweden, documenting over 34,000 individuals from 410 species. It shows an increase in species richness and abundance, with new species colonizing the region, indicating a biogeographical shift. Interestingly, despite increased diversity, phenotypic traits have become more uniform, with generalist species thriving while specialists decline. These changes are linked to broader environmental shifts, highlighting the importance of monitoring moth populations due to their critical roles in ecosystems as pollinators and food sources for wildlife.
Franzén, M., Schrader, J. & Sjöberg, G. Butterfly diversity and seasonality of Ta Phin mountain area (N. Vietnam, Lao Cai province). J Insect Conserv 21, 465–475 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10841-017-9985-z
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This study provides an in-depth exploration of the butterfly diversity in northern Vietnam’s Ta Phin mountain area. Through comprehensive fieldwork and detailed analysis, the researchers documented over 26,000 butterflies across 231 species, shedding light on the rich and varied fauna of this mountainous region. The findings reveal that most species were successfully detected, thanks to the thorough survey methods. Beyond showcasing the impressive biodiversity, the study emphasizes the critical role butterflies play as indicators of environmental health. By highlighting the seasonal shifts in butterfly populations, the research underscores the importance of conserving these vibrant species and the fragile ecosystems they call home.
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Franzén, M., & Betzholtz, P.-E. Species traits predict island occupancy in noctuid moths. J Insect Conserv 16, 155–163 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10841-011-9401-z
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The paper investigates the traits that predict island occupancy in noctuid moths, examining factors like body size, host plant specificity, habitat preference, distribution area, flight period length, and adult activity timing. Using light traps on two remote Swedish islands, Gotska Sandön and Utklippan, the study found that species with a broad distribution, generalist feeding habits, longer flight periods, and late summer activity had a higher probability of occupancy. These findings support conservation strategies, suggesting that generalist and widely distributed species are more likely to thrive in fragmented and changing environments.
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This document presents a detailed travel report from Hiroshi Hara’s 2013 expedition in Sweden, focusing on the study of butterflies in various regions of the country. The report chronicles field observations, species diversity, and the environmental conditions affecting butterfly populations during the summer months. It provides an account of key locations visited, including high-altitude sites and forested areas, where species distribution and flight patterns were documented.
The report includes numerous photographs of collected specimens, landscapes, and field activities, offering a visual record of the expedition. It also provides ecological insights into butterfly species such as Oeneis jutta and other Satyrinae, discussing their occurrence and flight behavior in Sweden compared to other parts of Europe and Asia.
Beyond species documentation, the report captures the challenges of butterfly research, including variations in seasonal activity and the impact of climatic conditions on species emergence. The text is primarily in Japanese but remains accessible through digital translation, with visual elements enhancing its readability.
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This publication delves into Carl Linnaeus’ method of naming butterflies, with a focus on how he drew inspiration from Greek mythology, particularly figures from the Trojan War, to classify various species of swallowtail butterflies. The study also highlights the influence of Queen Louisa Ulrika of Sweden and her extensive butterfly collection, which played a significant role in Linnaeus’ work. Through historical context and detailed examination, the text provides insights into how Linnaeus blended mythology and science in his taxonomy.
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This presentation delves into the historical and scientific exploration of butterflies through the lens of Carl Linnaeus’s taxonomic work. It highlights Linnaeus’s classification of various butterfly species, many named after figures from the Trojan War, and discusses their physical attributes and significance. The presentation also references classical antiquity, connecting ancient mythology with Linnaean taxonomy. Additionally, it touches on the historical travels of Linnaeus and the royal butterfly collection of Queen Lovisa Ulrica, offering a rich narrative of scientific discovery intertwined with cultural history.
Download it here! (in Swedish)
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This essay explores the fascinating connection between butterfly taxonomy and the mythology of the Trojan War. It delves into how Carl Linnaeus and other naturalists used names of heroes, gods, and figures from Greek mythology, particularly those related to the Trojan War, to classify various butterfly species. The essay provides historical context from The Iliad and The Odyssey, blending mythology with scientific discovery, and offers insight into how these ancient tales influenced the naming and categorization of butterflies in Linnaeus’s Systema Naturae.
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This publication presents the results of an ecological survey conducted in the Testeboån Nature Reserve, Sweden’s northernmost oak forest. The study focuses on the diversity of beetle species that rely on decaying wood in this unique habitat. The survey highlights the importance of the oak forest ecosystem, the threats posed by competing tree species, and offers conservation recommendations to preserve this vital environment.
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This presentation explores the changes in butterfly populations in the Gästrikland region from 1925 to 2010. It provides detailed information on various species, their historical and current status, and highlights conservation concerns. The presentation also touches on ecological challenges such as climate change and habitat loss, offering a comprehensive look at the region’s butterfly diversity over time.
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Find more about those amazing moths here!
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This text offers a fascinating look into the nocturnal butterfly species of Sweden. Through stunning photographs and insightful commentary, it highlights the hidden world of night-flying moths and their remarkable adaptations. The author draws connections between these elusive creatures and folkloric imagery, describing species like the Trollspinnare and Gräselefanten. The presentation not only celebrates the diversity of Swedish moths but also emphasizes the importance of preserving their natural habitats in the country’s forests.
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The publication details the exploration of butterfly species on Gotska Sandön, conducted in 1968. Over a two-week period, 159 species were collected, including 28 species newly recorded on the island. The collection was meticulously categorized by location across varied habitats such as sandy areas, grasslands, and forested regions. The findings were significant for understanding Gotska Sandön’s biodiversity, especially regarding species previously unrecorded in Sweden, and contributed to the comprehensive cataloging of the island’s lepidopteran fauna.
