LepTraits 1.0 A globally comprehensive dataset of butterfly traits

Abstract

Here, we present the largest, global dataset of Lepidopteran traits, focusing initially on butterflies (ca. 12,500 species records). These traits are derived from field guides, taxonomic treatments, and other literature resources. We present traits on wing size, phenology,voltinism, diapause/overwintering stage, hostplant associations, and habitat affinities (canopy, edge, moisture, and disturbance). This dataset will facilitate comparative research on butterfly ecology and evolution and our goal is to inspire future research collaboration and the continued development of this dataset.

Fig. 1

A graphical illustration of the processing workflow used to compile, scan, digitize, extract, atomize, and compile species trait records from literature resources. (1) Literature resources were examined for potential trait data and compiled into a single library; (2) each literature resource was scanned into.pdf format so that text could be readily copy and pasted from species accounts; (3) each.pdf file was uploaded to an online database with associated metadata for each literature resource; (4) trait extractors utilized an online interface to extract verbatim, raw text from designated resources; (5) verbatim, raw text extracts were either automatically (via regular-expressions and keyword searches) or manually atomized to a controlled vocabulary; (6) species consensus traits were calculated by aggregating resource-level records by name-normalized taxonomy. Rulesets were used for consensus trait building and are detailed in the supplementary material. Both resource-level and species consensus traits are presented in the dataset.

Fig. 2

Geographic breadth of our butterfly trait resources. Using a global map of level-two regions (World Geographic Scheme, Brummitt 2001), we have indicated the total number of resources available within each geographic area). Grey areas indicate that no resources were extracted from that region.

Fig. 3

Geographic breadth of our butterfly trait records. Using a global map of level-two regions(World Geographic Scheme, Brummitt 2001), we have indicated the total number of trait records from each geographic region). Grey areas indicate that trait records were not extracted from that region.