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Macroinvertebrates are bio-indicators of environmental health. A study on spatiotemporal diversity and abundance of macroinvertebrates was conducted in two rivers of Adwa, Ethiopia. Samples were collected from each river following the multi-habitat sampling approach. Moreover, physicochemical measurements were also taken. A total of 892 specimens of macroinvertebrates belonging to three phyla, eight orders and 17 families were identified. Higher (98%) and lower (2%) taxonomic abundance was recorded during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Family Physidae (48.65%) was the most dominant followed by Planorbidae (21.74%). During the dry and wet season Adi Haki river AD1 had the highest (H = 1.615) and lowest (H = 0.651) diversity index, respectively. Physicochemical measurements showed no significant difference between the two rivers (p > 0.05). The results of the study shows that the study rivers have moderate environmental health status. Therefore, watershed management is important to keep the area healthy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Mangrove forests are highly productive ecosystems that serve as biodiversity points, containing many organisations, contributing to carbon storage, improving water quality and providing ecosystem goods and services to improve local means of subsistence. These resilient ecosystems are characterised by their morphological modification and their particular respiratory structures (pneumatophores), which allow them to proliferate in salt-rich environments. Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining invertebrate and fishery resources, providing shelter and nutrients to a diverse range of species. However, mangrove ecosystems are threatened by anthropogenic activities such as the extraction of building materials, firewood, crushing plants and salt manufacturing, resulting in the disintegration of ecosystems and the loss of inhabitants. This study aimed to determine the abundance and diversity of macro-benthic invertebrates on the different parts (roots, stems and leaves) of common mangrove species of the Mbegani coast, along the Indian Ocean using a completely randomised design. Results The sampling was done using a 1 m2 quadrat focussed on the three mangrove parts, viz. roots, stems and leaves. The results showed that the highest percentage of macro-invertebrates were recorded on Bruguera gymnorhiza (66.8%), followed by Avicennia marina (20.8%) and the least were Ceriops tagal (12.4%), such variation differed significantly between the three mangrove species across the selected plots (F (2,524) = 5.71, p = 0.035). The stems (54.4%) inhabited a large number of macro-invertebrates, followed by roots (32.8%) and the least were leaves (12.8%), which varied significantly between the three mangrove parts sampled across the selected mangrove species (F (2,524) = 7.25; p = 0.008). The majority of macro-invertebrates were planktonic feeders stuck on stems or herbivores shuttling between the roots and leaves of the plants. Macro-invertebrates recorded on Bruguiera gymnorhiza were more diverse than those found in C. tagal. The findings emphasise the importance of macro-invertebrates in the ecological balance of mangrove ecosystems. Conclusion The study concludes that mangroves in the Mbegani ecosystem have a high potential for biodiversity and are important for the coastal community and the ecosystem of the Bagamoyo District. The results contribute to coastal resources management programmes and future surveillance activities.

Background: Mangrove forests are highly productive ecosystems that serve as biodiversity points, containing many organisations, contributing to carbon storage, improving water quality and providing ecosystem goods and services to improve local means of subsistence. These resilient ecosystems are characterised by their morphological modification and their particular respiratory structures (pneumatophores), which allow them to proliferate in salt-rich environments. Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining invertebrate and fishery resources, providing shelter and nutrients to a diverse range of species. However, mangrove ecosystems are threatened by anthropogenic activities such as the extraction of building materials, firewood, crushing plants and salt manufacturing, resulting in the disintegration of ecosystems and the loss of inhabitants. This study aimed to determine the abundance and diversity of macro-benthic invertebrates on the different parts (roots, stems and leaves) of common mangrove species of the Mbegani coast, along the Indian Ocean using a completely randomised design. Results: The sampling was done using a 1 m2 quadrat focussed on the three mangrove parts, viz. roots, stems and leaves. The results showed that the highest percentage of macro-invertebrates were recorded on Bruguera gymnorhiza (66.8%), followed by Avicennia marina (20.8%) and the least were Ceriops tagal (12.4%), such variation differed significantly between the three mangrove species across the selected plots (F(2,524) = 5.71, p = 0.035). The stems (54.4%) inhabited a large number of macro-invertebrates, followed by roots (32.8%) and the least were leaves (12.8%), which varied significantly between the three mangrove parts sampled across the selected mangrove species (F(2,524) = 7.25; p = 0.008). The majority of macro-invertebrates were planktonic feeders stuck on stems or herbivores shuttling between the roots and leaves of the plants. Macro-invertebrates recorded on Bruguiera gymnorhiza were more diverse than those found in C. tagal. The findings emphasise the importance of macro-invertebrates in the ecological balance of mangrove ecosystems. Conclusion: The study concludes that mangroves in the Mbegani ecosystem have a high potential for biodiversity and are important for the coastal community and the ecosystem of the Bagamoyo District. The results contribute to coastal resources management programmes and future surveillance activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess the water quality of Muthirapuzha River, Idukki using aquatic insects as bioindicators. Insects were collected on a seasonal basis from February 2014 to January 2015 from 12 sampling stations. Insects were sampled using standard collection methods and were identified up to family level. A total of 3,278 individuals belonging to seven orders and 37 families were collected during the study period. The greatest number of taxa was represented by order Ephemetroptera during monsoon (27%) and post-monsoon (25%), while Diptera (22.7%) dominated the pre-monsoon season. Shannon-Weiner diversity index, Simpson dominance index, and Margalef's richness index was highest at post-monsoon. The EPT score in Muthirapuzha was for normal waters, however, premonsoon values were lowest, indicating pollution load during this period. Hilsenhoff's family biotic index (HFBI) was used to estimate the status of organic pollution along the river based on representative families of aquatic entomofauna; values were highest at pre-monsoon season. The overall organic water quality level in the Muthirapuzha was good to fair based on this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water quality and self-purification capacity of the Disam River (Iran) was studied using macroinvertebrate-based indices and Qual2kw mathematical modeling tools. We evaluated the water quality and self-purification status of the Disam River through biotic indices of macroinvertebrates and mathematical modeling (Qual2kw). A total of 10,370 macroinvertebrate specimens were collected monthly using a Surber sampler (30 × 30 cm) at five sampling sites from 2019 through 2020. The Hilsenhoff Family Biotic Index (HFBI) and Average Score Per Taxon (ASPT) indexes categorized the sampling sites 2 and 3 in "Moderate " and "Very poor " water quality classes. The Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera (EPT) index categorized the river at "Good", and the Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP) at "acceptable " classes of water quality. We used Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) to explain the relationships between biotic indices and physicochemical parameters. The EPT index showed a positive correlation (axis1 = 1/43, axis2 = 0.065) with most physicochemical factors of the Qual2kw. Analyses of the Qual2kw output and macroinvertebrate occurrence showed that the family Chironomidae was dominant (S2 = 37.66% and S3 = 47.33%) in all seasons except summer. Family Baetidae was dominant in S2 (79%) and S3 (78%) with a weak positive correlation with increasing stream temperature (r = 0.21) and slightly negative correlation with increasing stream velocity (r = -0.053). Analyses of BOD and DO fluctuations confirmed the ongoing flushing of pollutants along the Disam River. Our findings highlight the importance of simultaneous study of biotic indices and mathematical modeling in assessment of "ecological integrity" and flexibility of aquatic ecosystems subjected to anthropogenic impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To probe into the community structure of macro-invertebrates of the reservoir water bodies of the Shanxi Hydro-project in Wenzhou City of southeast China, and its responsive relationship with the environmental factors, water quality monitoring and macro-invertebrates sampling survey were carried out in the dry season of January 2022 and the wet season of July 2022, and 18 sampling sites were selected covering the entire water bodies of Shanxi Reservoir and Zhaoshandu Reservoir. During the survey a total of 26 species of macro-invertebrates were collected in the reservoir area, which belonged to 3 phyla, 6 classes, 7 orders and 8 families, the dominant species throughout the year being mainly Branchiura sowerbyi, Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri and Procladius sp., and the macro-invertebrates did not show notable difference about abundance and diversity in the period of dry season-wet season, but the PCoA the Adonis paired test analyses suggested that their community structure varied significantly; the SIMPER analysis showed that the major contributors to the differences in community structure among the regions of Shanxi Hydroproject reservoirs in dry season were four species of Tubificidae, Chironomidae and Viviparidae, and in wet season are five species of Tubificidae and Chironomidae. The results of redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the environmental factors affecting the macro-invertebrates community structure of the Shanxi Hydroproject reservoirs in dry season were water depth (H), total nitrogen (TN) and orthophosphate (PO43-), and in wet season being transparency (SD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N). Consequently, Shanxi Reservoir is a typical deep-water reservoir, and the dominant populations are dominated by Tubificidae and Chironomidae, being under the influences of water depth and reservoir scheduling; Zhaoshandu Reservoir being affected by the pollutant confluence from the inflowing tributeries, is characterized with a relatively high trophic state and rather good species diversity. The spatial differences of macro-invertebrates community structure in the reservoirs are remarkable, and are affected by environmental factors considerably. Summarily, the achievements of this research will not only enrich the study on typical valley-type reservoirs particularly in southeastern China, but also assist the further investigation of macro-invertebrates in Shanxi Hydroproject, providing the scientific basis for the ecological protection of the reservoirs and the construction of beautiful rivers and lakes in Wenzhou. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Freshwater fish communities typically thrive in heterogenous ecosystems that offer various abiotic conditions. However, human impact increasingly leads to loss of this natural heterogeneity and its associated rich fish communities. To reverse this trend, we need guidelines on how to effectively restore or recreate habitats for multiple fish species. Lake Markermeer in the Netherlands is a human-created 70,000-ha lake with a uniform 4 m-water depth, steep shorelines, high wind-induced turbidity, and a declining fish community. In 2016, a forward-looking restoration project newly created a 1000-ha five-island archipelago in this degrading lake, which offered new sheltered shallow waters and deep sand excavations to the fish community. Methods In 2020, we assessed how omnivorous and piscivorous fish species used these new habitats by tracking 78 adult fish of five key species across local and lake-scales. We monitored spring arrival of adult fish and assessed local macro-invertebrate and young-of-the-year fish densities. Results Adult omnivorous Cyprinidae and piscivorous Percidae arrived at the archipelago in early spring, corresponding with expected spawning movements. During the productive summer season, 12 species of young-of-the-year fish appeared along the sheltered shorelines, with particularly high densities of common roach (Rutilus rutilus) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis). This suggests the sheltered, shallow, vegetated waters formed new suitable spawning and recruitment habitat for the fish community. Despite highest food densities for adult fish in the shallowest habitats (

We applied a deep-learning approach in order to develop a neural network able to detect and identify macro-invertebrate organisms within images of benthos bycatch collected in the Southern Ocean. We used the Faster RCNN architecture and fine-tuning approach. To perform the transfer-learning, we used an annotated dataset of 59,756 images of organisms identified within 1,845 images of lots, covering eleven taxa: Echinodermata, Asteroidea, Arthropoda, Annelida, Chordata, Hemichordata, Cnidaria, Porifera, Bryozoa, Brachiopoda and Mollusca. The resulting network, not yet efficient enough to obtain precise identifications, is able to provide detection and classification of organisms with a good level of accuracy considering the limited quality of the images used for training. We present this study as a proof of concept for teams involved in the management of collections of macro-invertebrate images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Freshwater fish communities typically thrive in heterogenous ecosystems that offer various abiotic conditions. However, human impact increasingly leads to loss of this natural heterogeneity and its associated rich fish communities. To reverse this trend, we need guidelines on how to effectively restore or recreate habitats for multiple fish species. Lake Markermeer in the Netherlands is a human-created 70,000-ha lake with a uniform 4 m-water depth, steep shorelines, high wind-induced turbidity, and a declining fish community. In 2016, a forward-looking restoration project newly created a 1000-ha five-island archipelago in this degrading lake, which offered new sheltered shallow waters and deep sand excavations to the fish community. Methods: In 2020, we assessed how omnivorous and piscivorous fish species used these new habitats by tracking 78 adult fish of five key species across local and lake-scales. We monitored spring arrival of adult fish and assessed local macro-invertebrate and young-of-the-year fish densities. Results: Adult omnivorous Cyprinidae and piscivorous Percidae arrived at the archipelago in early spring, corresponding with expected spawning movements. During the productive summer season, 12 species of young-of-the-year fish appeared along the sheltered shorelines, with particularly high densities of common roach (Rutilus rutilus) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis). This suggests the sheltered, shallow, vegetated waters formed new suitable spawning and recruitment habitat for the fish community. Despite highest food densities for adult fish in the shallowest habitats (< 2-m), adult fish preferred minimally 2-m deep water. After spawning most Cyprinidae left the archipelago and moved long distances through the lake system, while most Percidae remained resident. This may be related to (1) high densities of young-of-the-year fish as food for piscivores, (2) medium food densities for omnivores compared to elsewhere in the lake-system, or (3) the attractiveness of 30-m deep sand excavations that were newly created and frequently used by one-third of all tracked fish. Conclusions: New littoral zones and a deep sand excavation constructed in a uniform shallow lake that lacked these habitat types attracted omnivorous and piscivorous fish species within four years. Both feeding guilds used the littoral zones for reproduction and nursery, and notably piscivorous fish became residents year-round. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, the application of ecological indicators based on organisms has replaced traditional saprobic approaches for assessment of the quality of rivers impaired due to organic pollution and some other environmental disturbances. This study aimed to weigh the quality of the Ojarud River in Ardabil, Iran, applying biological and physiological indices of macro‐invertebrates. A total of 12,524 samplings were fulfilled at four stations (S1, S2, S3, S4) from the headstream to downstream by a Surber sampler (30 × 30 cm2) from June/2020 to April/2021. All year round, the highest frequent families were Chironomidae (2658), Simuliidae (1025) from Diptera and Caenidae (1855), and Baetidae (724) from Ephemeroptera. The diversity pattern was analyzed by PAST software, and Primer 7 (BIO‐ENV analysis) was utilized to understand what factor has the most impact on the distribution of macro‐invertebrates. The least similarity of S4 to other stations was recognized by Cluster analysis. As per the ANOSIM (analysis of similarities), a statistically significant difference in the macroinvertebrates' frequency was established between S3 and other stations (p =.0001, r =.63). Moreover, the relationship between heavy metals and macro‐invertebrate showed that the three families of Simuliidae, Gomphidae, and Caenidae had a positive correlation with the concentrations of heavy metals in the sediment. As per the Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera index, the water quality was placed in the "excellent" class, but the Biological Monitoring Working Party and Hilsenhoff Family Biotic Index indices scored the water quality "good" class at S1 and the "poor" class at S3. Based on the results of this study, the use of physicochemical and hydro‐morphological indicators can support the biological indicators but cannot replace them. In addition, careful evaluation of biological indicators is required to develop conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterbirds and fish sometimes compete for macro-invertebrate prey. In Scotland, the invertivorous waterbird, the common scoter Melanitta nigra, breeds at oligotrophic lakes with few brown trout Salmo trutta. This study tested whether reducing trout biomass favours this and other invertivorous waterbirds. The study took place in Scotland's Flow Country, where brown trout occur widely, attracting recreational anglers, though angling has declined. At four small lakes, over 7 years, trout were reduced using 25 m2 exclosures, and re-introducing traditional angling (including fish removal). Trout, macro-invertebrates and waterbirds were monitored. After angling re-introduction, trout biomass density declined by 56% (95% CLs 13–78%), but there was little lake-level change in combined macro-invertebrate biomass. However, within exclosures, macro-invertebrate biomass increased 4.7-fold (CLs 1.6–14). Analysing invertebrates in eight different groups showed lake-level increases, following angling re-introduction, for two groups (freshwater shrimps Gammarus; water-surface invertebrates). Gammarus showed the strongest response, increasing sixfold (CLs 2.2–11.6). A combined analysis was performed for the commonest invertivorous waterbirds: common scoter, mallard Anas platyrhynchos, teal A. crecca, greenshank Tringa nebularia and dunlin Calidris alpina. After angling effort increased, occurrence of these species changed little initially, but rose later: 4 years after angling began, odds of occurrence had increased 4.9-fold (CLs 2.2–11). This study supports reducing trout biomass in peatland lakes by encouraging traditional angling, to increase some macro-invertebrate groups and usage by invertivorous waterbirds. Further work should test this across more lakes alongside work investigating the origins (native or stocked) of brown trout populations in the Flow Country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Today, the application of ecological indicators based on organisms has replaced traditional saprobic approaches for assessment of the quality of rivers impaired due to organic pollution and some other environmental disturbances. This study aimed to weigh the quality of the Ojarud River in Ardabil, Iran, applying biological and physiological indices of macro‐invertebrates. A total of 12,524 samplings were fulfilled at four stations (S1, S2, S3, S4) from the headstream to downstream by a Surber sampler (30 × 30 cm2) from June/2020 to April/2021. All year round, the highest frequent families were Chironomidae (2658), Simuliidae (1025) from Diptera and Caenidae (1855), and Baetidae (724) from Ephemeroptera. The diversity pattern was analyzed by PAST software, and Primer 7 (BIO‐ENV analysis) was utilized to understand what factor has the most impact on the distribution of macro‐invertebrates. The least similarity of S4 to other stations was recognized by Cluster analysis. As per the ANOSIM (analysis of similarities), a statistically significant difference in the macroinvertebrates' frequency was established between S3 and other stations (p = .0001, r = .63). Moreover, the relationship between heavy metals and macro‐invertebrate showed that the three families of Simuliidae, Gomphidae, and Caenidae had a positive correlation with the concentrations of heavy metals in the sediment. As per the Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera index, the water quality was placed in the “excellent” class, but the Biological Monitoring Working Party and Hilsenhoff Family Biotic Index indices scored the water quality “good” class at S1 and the “poor” class at S3. Based on the results of this study, the use of physicochemical and hydro‐morphological indicators can support the biological indicators but cannot replace them. In addition, careful evaluation of biological indicators is required to develop conservation strategies.

The stress of acute salinity increase on the life of macro-invertebrates in Shatt Al-Arab River system were investigated based on their abundance estimation acute salinity increase during the year 2018,where the salinity of the River at central, Basrah City became above 5 ppt and reached up to 25 ppt. Review work was done to determine the sizes and densities of the species during the normal conditions in past decades (1975-1995). The results of observations, photography and semi-quantitative sampling which were taken during many visits in the years 2012, 2015, 2016, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 at Al-Salhia, Abo Al-Kassib, Al-Garmma and Al-Gurnah, were expressed in an ordinal six abundant scales (SACFOR), modified for species sizes and densities. All the species were have superabundance or common scale during the period 1975-1995, whereas at 2018-2020 the abundance of all species except M. affinis, were declined in general, 7 species were absent and 3 more were rare. The amphipods Parhyale basrensis, Platorchestia monodi, the isopod Sphaeroma annandalei and the annelid Namalycastis indica were commonly or frequently found at good state indicating their ability to resist the mesohaline conditions, the euryhaline species M. affinis and B. amphitrite weren’t affected. The study concluded that, in case of long term mesohaline conditions, most of the estuarine macro-invertebrates will be unable to persist and may be shifting to the upper reaches of the River.

This study was conducted to access the water quality of Qua River Estuary, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria by collecting water samples and macroinvertebrates using standard sampling procedures and analytical methods. The mean values of physicochemical parameters assessed in water samples gave the following ranges: DO (2.38 - 4.63 mg/l), water temperature (26.13 - 29.18 °C), turbidity (22.56 - 39.24 NTU),TDS (224.8 - 332.51 mg/l), pH (6.3 - 7.5 mg/l), salinity (3.13 - 4.84 ppt),BOD (1.13 - 3.64 mg/l), nitrate (2.45 - 6.72 mg/l), phosphate (2.12 - 5.93 mg/l) and Flow velocity (0.23 - 0.38 ms-1). ANOVA reveals significant variation in some parameters. A total of 308 individual species, comprising of three phyla and seven taxonomic groups of macro-invertebrate were identified. Arthropoda constituted the highest percentage composition (75.4%), followed by Mollusca (18.8%), and Annelida (5.8%). The dominant group was Decapoda (35.7%) and the least was Odonata accounted only for 1.9%. Station 5 has the highest number of individual's species (112), station 3 had the least (43). Chironomus plumosus was the most occurring species, accounted for 19.2%. The result reveals that anthropogenic activities in the water system influence the abundance of aquatic biota; based on the macro-invertebrates identified, it shows that the water quality is moderately polluted owing to human activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to access the water quality of Qua River Estuary, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria by collecting water samples and macroinvertebrates using standard sampling procedures and analytical methods. The mean values of physicochemical parameters assessed in water samples gave the following ranges: DO (2.38 – 4.63 mg/l), water temperature (26.13 – 29.18 oC), turbidity (22.56 – 39.24 NTU),TDS (224.8 – 332.51 mg/l), pH (6.3 – 7.5 mg/l), salinity (3.13 – 4.84 ppt),BOD (1.13 – 3.64 mg/l), nitrate (2.45 – 6.72 mg/l), phosphate (2.12 – 5.93 mg/l) and Flow velocity (0.23 – 0.38 ms-1). ANOVA reveals significant variation in some parameters. A total of 308 individual species, comprising of three phyla and seven taxonomic groups of macro-invertebrate were identified. Arthropoda constituted the highest percentage composition (75.4%), followed by Mollusca (18.8%), and Annelida (5.8%). The dominant group was Decapoda (35.7%) and the least was Odonata accounted only for 1.9%. Station 5 has the highest number of individual’s species (112), station 3 had the least (43). Chironomus plumosus was the most occurring species, accounted for 19.2%. The result reveals that anthropogenic activities in the water system influence the abundance of aquatic biota; based on the macro-invertebrates identified, it shows that the water quality is moderately polluted owing to human activities.

Abstract Environmental stress caused by pollution is often assessed by diversity of macro-invertebrate species in specific aquatic habitat. To find out seasonal fluctuations in various macro-invertebrates communities and different water quality parameters of River Zhob, a research trial was conducted on River Zhob, Balochistan. Samples of macro-invertebrates and water were taken from four different stations of River Zhob. A total 18 taxa of various macro-invertebrates were identified from the area. Phylum Arthropoda constitute 94.8% of the total population followed by Mollusca (3.6%) and Annelida (1.4%). A large number of arthropods were belonged to order Diptera (1148), while the order Trichoptera was stood second with respect to macro-invertebrate´s number (441). The maximum numbers of macro-invertebrates were observed in the month of January. All physico-chemical parameters of River Zhob such as air temperature, water temp, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and total dissolved solids (TDS) were within the range, suitable for the healthy growth of macro-invertebrates. Diversified populations of various macro-invertebrates confirm good ecological condition of environment and water in the studied site especially ample concentration of DO in River. The documented data on macro-invertebrates in studied site will provide a baseline for future research.

The Egyptian coast of Gulf of Aqaba, north of the Red Sea, suffers from severe destruction and deterioration in habitat and biodiversity due to anthropogenic activities and flooding. The present work aims to evaluate the impacts of different human activities and flooding on the biodiversity of macrobenthic invertebrates along the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. From January 2019 to December 2019, many field trips (12 trips) were conducted to survey macrobenthic invertebrate communities and monitor water quality at nine sites within three sectors along the study area. Each site was divided into four ecological zones and one of five categories, according to the main activities at each site. Furthermore, satellite data were used to monitor the progress of land use and turbidity in the study area. Therefore, the current study assesses the relationship between these factors and water quality and macrobenthic invertebrate distributions, similarity, diversity, dominance and abundance. The results revealed that 53 macrobenthic invertebrate species belonging to three phyla (Mollusca, Echinodermata and Annelida) and one subphylum (Crustacea) were recorded. The echinoderm Echinometra mathaei was the major eudominant species. The northern part of the Gulf was higher in abundance and diversity with low land use and lowest water turbidity, while the south part showed contrary findings. All statistical analysis confirmed that the dissolved oxygen concentration was considered the only limiting factor for the abundance and diversity of macrobenthic invertebrates. Also, the variation in activities at investigated sites affected the dominance state of species in each site. Moreover, GPS data confirmed that the tourism activity had the largest influence on marine ecosystems and biodiversity, followed by fishing and desalination practices. Otherwise, flooding has significant influence on marine habitats and creates a habitat in which other certain species can survive. In the absence of awareness, intervention and disregard for the effective coastal zone management concept, especially for the unique marine ecosystems such as the Gulf of Aqaba, the degradation of biodiversity will continue until extinction, and human life is rendered unsustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organophosphate pesticide fenitrothion is widely used as an agricultural pesticide to control tiger bug in larval rearing for aquaculture. The objectives of the present study were to assess the effects of fenitrothion on certain structural (phytoplankton, zooplankton, macro-invertebrates and periphyton) and functional (organic matter decomposition) endpoints of freshwater microcosms. Fenitrothion 50 EC was applied in 12 microcosms (PVC tanks having 400 L of dechlorinated tap water) providing concentrations of 0, 25, 50 and 100 μg/L at a 4-day interval over a period of 4 weeks. Each of the experimental treatment was executed in three replicates. The results indicated the consistent significant effects for most of the species composition of zooplankton and macro-invertebrates. Univariate analysis showed a significant decrease in abundance (p

Background & objectives: Understanding the effect of biotic and abiotic factors on the biology and ecology of immature stages of anopheline larvae is very important in controlling malaria vector mosquitoes. Therefore, this study was focused on the monitoring of ecological factors affecting the distribution, dynamics, and density of malaria vector mosquitoes in the District of Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. Methods: Permanent and temporary breeding habitats were identified and selected from five possible malaria sensitive sites in the district of Trincomalee. Anopheles larvae and macro-invertebrates were collected using standard methods for 16 months (from October 2013 to January 2015) and they were identified microscopically. Eight physico-chemical parameters of the breeding habitats were measured. Results: Overall, a total of 4815 anopheline larvae belonging to 13 species were collected from 3,12,764 dips from 18 permanent and temporary breeding habitats. The abundance of anopheline larvae showed a significant positive correlation (p

The comparative study of the heavy metal accumulation and the biodiversity of macro-benthic fauna of Ogbe creek, Abule-agege creek and University of Lagos (Unilag) canal (Second Gate) were investigated. Sampling of macro-invertebrates were carried out in each station using a sweep net, all samples were grouped, identified, counted and recorded. Water, sediment and macro-invertebrate samples were taken and analyzed for heavy metals; Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Nitrate (NO3 2-) and Phosphate (PO3 2-). Unilag canal (second gate) recorded the highest physico-chemical parameters (Temperature 28.110oC ± 30.870oC; Turbidity 37.700 ± 21.000 NTU; Total Dissolved Solids 0.135 ± 1.730mg/l; Ph 6.470±7.180 and Salinity 0.120 ±0.200g/kg) while Ogbe creek recorded the highest dissolved oxygen (14.730±46.700mg/L). The highest concentrations of heavy metals were recorded in Unilag canal (second gate) followed by Abule-agege creek, while Ogbe creek recorded the least. Assessment of macro-benthic fauna in these locations recorded a total of 17 taxa and 356 individuals. Ogbe creek had the highest diversity of macro-benthic organisms comprising of 8 taxa mostly Insects, Abule-agege creek recorded 3 taxa (mainly Decapoda) while Unilag canal (second gate) had only Chordates (Poecilia reticulata). The species diversity indicated by Margalef's and Shaanon weiner's indices respectively were both highest in November due to the increase in the number of species. The rate of bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Zn, Nitrate and Phosphate) in Ogbe creek assessed in Penaeus sp, Gyrinus and Physa sp was higher in Physa sp compared to the others. Zinc had the highest concentration while lead had the least in all the organisms. Given the importance of macro-invertebrates in the aquatic ecosystem food chains, which later serve as food for humans, there is need to protect the quality of these water bodies from direct discharge and run offs form urban settlements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid deposition has declined across eastern North America and northern Europe due to reduced emissions of sulfur and nitrogen oxides. Ecosystem recovery has been slow with limited improvement in surface water chemistry. Delayed recovery has encouraged acid-neutralization strategies to accelerate recovery of impaired biological communities. Lime application has been shown to increase pH and dissolved organic carbon (DOC), which could also drive increased mobilization of mercury (Hg) to surface waters. A four-year study was conducted within Honnedaga Lake's watershed in the Adirondack region of New York to compare the effects of watershed and direct channel lime additions on Hg in stream water and macroinvertebrates. All treatments sharply increased stream pH and DOC concentrations, but large differences in the duration of impacts were apparent. The watershed treatment resulted in multi-year increases in concentrations and loads of total Hg (150%; 390%), DOC (190%; 350%) and nutrients, whereas total Hg and DOC increased for short periods (72–96 h) after channel treatments. No response of Hg in macroinvertebrates was evident following the watershed treatment, but a potential short-term and spatially constrained increase occurred after the channel treatment. Our observations indicate that both treatment approaches mobilize Hg, but that direct channel liming mobilizes considerably less than watershed liming over any period longer than a few days. During the final study year, increased methyl Hg concentrations were observed across reference and treated streams, which may reflect an extended dry period, highlighting that climate variation may also affect Hg dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Abandoned cattle (Bos taurus) kraals are sources of habitat heterogeneity in dystrophic semi‐arid African savannas with a strong positive effect on soil nutrients and plant productivity. However, little is known regarding how macro‐invertebrate assemblages vary between abandoned kraals and the surrounding savanna matrix. We tested whether herbaceous biomass and basal and aerial covers and soil nutrients have an effect on aboveground and belowground macro‐invertebrate assemblages. Twelve abandoned kraals were contrasted with their paired control plots for soil characteristics, herbaceous productivity, and macro‐invertebrate assemblages in Save Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe. Abandoned kraals had significantly higher concentrations of soil nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) as well as herbaceous biomass and basal and aerial covers than control plots. Both aboveground and belowground macro‐invertebrate species richness were higher on abandoned kraals. However, only belowground macro‐invertebrate diversity (Shannon H′ and Hill number 1) was significantly higher on abandoned kraals. Soil nutrients and herbaceous productivity had positive and significant correlations with the dominant taxa (Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, Isoptera, and Myriapoda) on abandoned kraals. These results add to the growing body of evidence that abandoned kraals exert significant effects on savanna spatial heterogeneity years later, with implications on ecosystem processes and functioning.

The community composition of benthic macrofauna and relationships between physiochemical parameters of the water and sediment texture were assessed in Hara Biosphere Reserve, Northern Persian Gulf. The spatial distribution and diversity of macrobenthos were sampled within three distinctive mangrove zones (deltaic, island and coastal) during two sampling seasons between August 2014 and January 2015. A total of nine transects perpendicular to the coastline were selected to cover over the entire study area. The counts of all macrofauna were recorded from each zone and station with three replicate sediment samples. The snails, Cerithidea cingulata and Asseminea sp., were observed throughout three mangrove zones, but their abundance varied among habitats. The bivalve Dosinia ceylonica found to be more abundant in delta, whereas burrowing crabs Ocypode and Uca were dominate in coastal zone. Terebralia palustris and amphipods were recorded frequently in island zone. The nonmetric multidimensional scaling ordinations and a three-way factor PERMANOVA indicated that macro-invertebrate species composition significantly differed among different mangrove zones. The results also showed the seasonal variations. The findings of diversity indices illustrated that deltaic zone had the highest abundance and diversity, while the coastal zone showed the lowest values among the three zones. Taken together, the observations demonstrated that the different hydrological conditions, temperature, salinity and sediment texture were the main factors determining dispersion of benthic faunal assemblages among different mangrove habitats at Hara Biosphere Reserve. There is a need to consider such variables in ecological studies to understand differences of macrofaunal diversities in these complex habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although it is well known that the increasing size of the human population has a negative effect on freshwater biodiversity, the subject of whether or how the intersection of roads and streams (hereafter road crossings) influence the diversity of stream macro-invertebrates is under-researched. To fill this gap in our knowledge, we collected stream macro-invertebrates from road crossings (bridges and culverts) and compared their diversity with upstream and downstream sections. We found that road crossings had negative effects on the richness and abundance of native macro-invertebrates, as well as on the number of protected taxa. Our results showed also that alien individuals were more abundant at road crossings. These findings support the assumption that road crossings contribute to the spread of alien species. The assessment of environmental variables indicated that road crossings caused habitat modifications, and based on these it can be assumed that habitat modifications and associated phenomena (e.g. pollutants and storm events) were the major drivers of the observed patterns in biodiversity. Our results fill a knowledge gap and contribute to the deeper understanding of the effect of road crossings on freshwater biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bloemspruit in the Free State, South Africa, is being polluted by increasing anthropogenic activities alongside the stream. Water quality, macro‐invertebrate diversity and macro‐invertebrate habitats were studied to determine the extent of pollution. Pollution condition was quantified by calculating several indicators. The study revealed that Bloemspruit is highly polluted for the majority of the sampling sites. Two sites had fair water quality, while the water quality at the other sites was either marginal or poor. SASS 5 scores revealed that most macro‐invertebrate families present were pollution tolerant, indicating the poor state of the water. According to the modified IHAS (mIHAS) scores, macro‐invertebrate habitats at two sites were fair, seven adequate/fair and two poor. The relatively low values of the IHI scores confirm that the majority of the sites were affected by human activities. One site was classified as being largely modified because of the degrading effect of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) nearby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristic of polluo-tolerance and polluo-sensitivity allow to benthic aquatic macro-invertebrates the ability of being a good indicator for the health of the aquatic ecosystem. Our study presents an inventory of macro-invertebrates in the shores of Lake Tonga (wetland of international importance – Ramsar Site). The sampling was conducted between January to May 2017 and in three stations (Fad smar, Wadi El Hout and Fad El Alig). They were identified to family level. We provide a checklist and some observations on 20 families belonging to six orders. The taxonomic richness shows fluctuations between the studied stations, 13 families in Fad smar station, 14 in Wadi El Hout station and 17 families in Fad El Alig. Hemeptera, Coleoptera and Gasteropoda are dominant in the area. Factorial analysis of correspondence revealed significantly different macro-invertebrates assemblages among the stations of Lake Tonga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Abandoned cattle (Bos taurus) kraals are sources of habitat heterogeneity in dystrophic semi‐arid African savannas with a strong positive effect on soil nutrients and plant productivity. However, little is known regarding how macro‐invertebrate assemblages vary between abandoned kraals and the surrounding savanna matrix. We tested whether herbaceous biomass and basal and aerial covers and soil nutrients have an effect on aboveground and belowground macro‐invertebrate assemblages. Twelve abandoned kraals were contrasted with their paired control plots for soil characteristics, herbaceous productivity, and macro‐invertebrate assemblages in Save Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe. Abandoned kraals had significantly higher concentrations of soil nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) as well as herbaceous biomass and basal and aerial covers than control plots. Both aboveground and belowground macro‐invertebrate species richness were higher on abandoned kraals. However, only belowground macro‐invertebrate diversity (Shannon H′ and Hill number 1) was significantly higher on abandoned kraals. Soil nutrients and herbaceous productivity had positive and significant correlations with the dominant taxa (Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, Isoptera, and Myriapoda) on abandoned kraals. These results add to the growing body of evidence that abandoned kraals exert significant effects on savanna spatial heterogeneity years later, with implications on ecosystem processes and functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of higher taxa or alternative approach to species surrogacy, such as the BestAgg procedure, could represent cost-effective solutions to avoid expensive species-level identifications in monitoring activities, especially on the long term. However, whether a set of surrogates would be effective in subsequent reiteration of the same assessment remains largely unsolved. We used a long-term dataset on macro-benthic assemblages to test the hypothesis that family-level and BestAgg surrogates which are effective for a limited period of monitoring could be successfully applied to quantify community patterns also in subsequent monitoring programmes. The effectiveness of surrogates in detecting temporal variations in assemblage structure as at species level remained basically unaffected over a decade. Recognizing once and for all if species surrogacy may have a practical value for monitoring will strongly depend on future assessments of the potential of surrogates to reflect community changes and to retain this prerogative over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Flanders Environment Agency (VMM) has been performing biological water quality assessments on inland waters in Flanders (Belgium) since 1989 and sediment quality assessments since 2000. The water quality monitoring network is a combined physico-chemical and biological network, the biological component focusing on macro-invertebrates. The sediment monitoring programme produces biological data to assess the sediment quality. Both monitoring programmes aim to provide index values, applying a similar conceptual methodology based on the presence of macro-invertebrates. The biological data obtained from both monitoring networks are consolidated in the VMM macro-invertebrates database and include identifications at family and genus level of the freshwater phyla Coelenterata, Platyhelminthes, Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda. This paper discusses the content of this database, and the dataset published thereof: 282,309 records of 210 observed taxa from 4,140 monitoring sites located on 657 different water bodies, collected during 22,663 events. This paper provides some background information on the methodology, temporal and spatial coverage, and taxonomy, and describes the content of the dataset. The data are distributed as open data under the Creative Commons CC-BY license. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the isotopic composition (δ13C and δ15N) in biofilm, macro‐invertebrates and resident salmonids were used to characterize temporal dynamics of marine derived nutrients (MDNs) incorporation between stream reaches with and without MDN inputs. Five Atlantic rivers were chosen to represent contrasting MDN subsidies: four rivers with considerable numbers of anadromous fishes; one river with little MDN input. Rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax, alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus and Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, were the primary anadromous species for the sampled rivers. Regardless of the spatial resolution or the pathway of incorporation, annual nutrient pulses from spawning anadromous fishes had a positive effect on isotopic enrichment at all trophic levels (biofilm, 1·2–5·4‰; macro‐invertebrates, 0·0–6·8‰; fish, 1·2–2·6‰). Community‐wide niche space shifted toward the marine‐nutrient source, but the total ecological niche space did not always increase with MDN inputs. The time‐integrated marine‐nutrient resource contribution to the diet of S. salar parr and brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis ranged between 16·3 and 36·0% during anadromous fish‐spawning periods. The high degree of spatio‐temporal heterogeneity in marine‐nutrient subsidies from anadromous fishes lead to both direct and indirect pathways of MDN incorporation into stream food webs. This suggests that organisms at many trophic levels derive a substantial proportion of their energy from marine resources when present. The current trend of declining anadromous fish populations means fewer nutrient‐rich marine subsidies being delivered to rivers, diminishing the ability to sustain elevated riverine productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sodium (Na) respiration hypothesis (SER) states that low Na availability limits the activity and density of soil organisms and therefore plays an important role in decomposition processes of tropical forest soils. Support for this hypothesis was found in several studies reporting higher decomposition rates attributed to higher densities of macro-invertebrates after sodium chloride (NaCl) additions. However, it was also suggested that high doses of NaCl might make organic material unpalatable or even toxic for microbes. Most of these studies were conducted in inland tropical rainforests, where atmospheric deposition of Na is low compared to coastal areas and therefore Na limitation may be more severe. We assessed how treating standardized organic material with different NaCl concentrations affects decomposition rates in a coastal primary rainforest on the island of Borneo. For this purpose, we established a multi-factorial short-term (7 days) decomposition experiment in which we incubated cotton cloths (standard organic material). The cloths were treated with 0%, 0.5%, 1%. 2.5% or 5% NaCl solutions and either provided access for all soil decomposer communities (no mesh) or excluded macro-invertebrates >2 mm (metal mesh). The cloths were placed in the mineral soil and on top of the litter layer. We found higher decomposition in the mineral soil compared to the top of the litter layer. Decomposition rates of cloths treated with 5% NaCl were significantly higher compared to all other cloths, which provides first evidence that the SER might also hold for coastal systems. In addition, we found higher decomposition for the meshed than the non-meshed cloths suggesting that macro-invertebrates either “grazed” on the smaller invertebrates/microbes or that the smaller soil fauna was more efficient in exploiting NaCl when macro-invertebrates were absent. Overall our findings suggest that Na may also control the activity of soil organisms in coastal tropical forest ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the best practical methods to understand ecological status of a water body and determine impacts of human intervention in reducing water quality is using benthic macroinvertebrates as assessment tools for monitoring their biological integrity and health. The Tajan River is one of the rivers of Caspian Southernsub-basin that drains the Caspian Sea. Macroinvertebrate samples were taken using Surber’s sampler (40 x 40 cm and 100µ mesh size) in 45 day intervals with 3 replicates in each sampling site for a period of one year (May 2010 to May 2011). The collected organisms were preserved in 4% formalin solution and transferred to the laboratory for identification and counting. Six different functional feeding groups of macroinvertebrate e.g. Collector-gathering, Collector-filtering, Predator, Collector-gathering /Scraper, Predator/Collector-gathering and Scraper were determined. Feeding groups of Collector-gathering, Collector-filtering and Collector-gathering /Scraper were relatively dominant in comparison to other groups. Groups of Collector-filtering and Collector-gathering were dominant in slightly and heavily polluted stations, respectively. In this study population structure measures including abundance, EPT percent and the EPT and EPT/CHIR indics were mearsured. Species diversity, species richness were also determined using Shannon- Weiner, Margalef and Jacardindics. The minimum and maximum values of Hilsenhoff biotic index were observedin stations 1 (4.29) and 5 (5.57), respectively. Moreover, the highest and lowest values of BMWP/ASPT were observed in station 1 (4.51) and 5 (3.25), respectively. Evaluation of indicators revealed less water quality at stations 2, 3 and 5 which located at the lowermost of fish farms and effluent of factory. This reduction might be implicated to the effluents of water damps from fish farms running into the stream as diversity and total abundance (%) of sociable macroinvertebrates decreased and that of resistant macrofauna increased due to water pollution. Hence, from the obtained results, this can be concluded that the use of benthic macroinvertebrates as bioindicator for the assessment of water quality of the stream is desirable.

Macro-invertebrates play a key role in freshwater lentic and lotic ecosystems. Lake Neor is located in northwest of Iran, southeast of Ardebil city, 2480m above the sea level. Limnological data about lake is incomplete. This tectonic lake is known to have a unique macro-invertebrate fauna. In order to describe the zoo-benthic community of the lake more completely, the present study was conducted during a period of one year from August 2008 to July 2009 with the exception of 3 months during the 5 months the lake is covered by ice. The benthic assemblage was sampled monthly from four sites and these fauna were found to be very limited with a total of 11 species belonging to 10 families, 10 orders, 7 classes and 3 phyla. Eight species were identified and recorded for the first time in the lake and in Iran. Gammarus fasciatus, Pisidium supinum and Quistadrilus multisetosus were the dominant benthic species representing more than 49, 43 and 5 percent of the total benthic fauna. Almost all benthic species showed the same intra-annual, seasonal and spatial pattern. The highest density was found in station 4, near the outlet, in July. The maximum abundance of total population of macro-benthoses in Neor lake was composed of 41872.75 pieces in a sample per square meter in September and the minimum with 28177.08 pieces in March. Dissolved oxygen, temperature and habitat homogeneity seemed to be the main environmental factors affecting community indices in Lake Neor.

The proposed use of an asymmetrical sampling design to evaluate the sustainability of human activities in coastal systems was tested on an aquaculture impact assessment. Two small fish farms located in a protected area were studied, one sited on an unvegetated soft bottom and the other on a seagrass meadow. Biotic and abiotic variables at sites of fish farms were compared with appropriate reference sites located at two different distances from the cages (300 m and 1000 m) through an asymmetrical sampling design. All the considered descriptors significantly differed between the sites under the cages and the reference sites in both seagrass and unvegetated habitats; by contrast, no significant differences were detected between the reference sites located at the two different distances from the cages, suggesting a spatially limited impact of the farms. The asymmetrical sampling design was able not only to detect an impact on benthic assemblages, but also to evaluate the spatial extent of this impact. The approach proposed in this study can be considered suitable to evaluate the sustainability of aquaculture farms and other human activities in marine coastal areas. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In alpine river networks, water source (i.e. snow, ice or groundwater) plays a major role in influencing flow regimes, benthic habitat and macro-invertebrate community structure. Across these systems, a natural stress gradient can be conceptualized, from rivers fed exclusively by meltwater (harsh habitat) to those with no melt input (relatively benign, groundwater fed). However, despite the current context of rapid glacier retreat, our understanding of linkages between meltwater contributions, physico-chemical habitat and biodiversity remains limited. To address this research gap, habitat characteristics and macro-invertebrate community structure were studied at 26 sites (five river basins) in the French Pyrénées across a meltwater gradient from 0% to 99%. A combination of generalized regression models and multivariate analyses showed that the stress gradient was associated with the following: (i) linear responses of key physico-chemical habitat variables, in particular bed stability, (ii) unimodal responses at the community level (e.g. richness and total density peaks at 40-60% meltwater contribution), and (iii) both unimodal and monotonic responses at the level of individual taxa. Sites characterized by high contributions of meltwater, although species poor, were important for beta diversity because of their specialist endemic fauna. Our findings suggest that continued glacier and snowpack retreat due to expected future climate change are likely to lead to more homogeneous alpine river habitats (i.e. reduced meltwater-groundwater stress gradient breadth). As a result, increased alpha diversity is expected as previously harsh habitats become more favourable; however, an associated decrease in beta diversity is likely as glacial stream specialists become replaced by generalists. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of fish introductions on lake ecosystems have long been debated. It has been hypothesized that such effects should be strongest in oligotrophic lakes, where fish were not originally present. We investigated two lakes (one naturally fishless, one fish-stocked in 1980) in northern Fennoscandia, selected because of the absence of other anthropogenic stressors and a well-known stocking history. The diet of the introduced brown trout ( Salmo trutta L.) was analysed to estimate the effect of their predation on the pelagic invertebrate communities. Quantitative and qualitative samples were taken to assess the current abundances of pelagic macro- and micro-invertebrates in different habitats of both lakes, to infer the impact of brown trout presence. Past abundances of Cladocera, Chironomidae, Gammarus lacustris and Daphnia longispina were also estimated based on subfossil remains in the sediment, and used to assess how brown trout introduction affected macro- and micro-invertebrates living in different habitats. Relative abundance and species richness of Cladocera were evaluated in sediment cores from both lakes, to assess whether changes were caused by fish-introduction-induced trophic cascades or climate change. Also, planktonic Cladocera ( Eubosmina) body sizes were measured to evaluate their response to the release of macro-invertebrate predation pressure. Brown trout introduction displaced macro-invertebrates, i.e. G. lacustris, from the pelagic area, and caused a trophic cascade effect that slightly increased the species richness of Cladocera, but markedly increased their abundance, as shown in the sediment record. Introduced brown trout did not, however, cause a decline in Chironomidae, G. lacustris or D. longispina abundances. On the contrary, it resulted in an approximately five-fold increase in Chironomidae accumulation rates in the sediment. The release of macro-invertebrate predation pressure did not lead to changes in the body shapes of Eubosmina, which could be a consequence of the composition of the original macro-invertebrate species assemblage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species’ ecological preferences are progressively important for understanding distribution patterns, for conserving biodiversity or for assessing and evaluating the status of freshwater ecosystems. Comprehensive databases compiling species traits are already established in the terrestrial realm, but widely missing in freshwater science. We established a database for European taxa of five aquatic organism groups by compiling information on taxonomy, ecology and distribution based on extensive literature surveys, which were performed by experts for the targeted organism groups. The database includes fishes (654 taxa/21 ecological preferences), macro-invertebrates (8586/40), macrophytes (1083/5), diatoms (8868/36) and phytoplankton (1976/4). It is available online with various options and tools for finding information and has currently over 800 users. The reviewed literature as well as examples given in this paper, highlight the importance of the general availability of knowledge on ecological preferences for various aspects in ecological assessment. Freshwaterecology.info is considered a service for basic research, applied scientists, water managers or other stakeholders. It serves as base for bioassessment and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After more than 10 years of treatments against water pollution, the water quality of the Huaihe River has improved considerably. At present, the river is in recovery phase. Two surveys on macro-invertebrates were carried out in the middle reaches in May and October 2010. Fifteen sampling stations were set up along the trunk, including Hongze Lake. Thirty-four species were recorded, and poor species and low biodiversity were the main community characteristics of this river. Significant differences in assemblages were found between the trunk and lake. Collectors were the chief functional feeding group in the trunk, while predators were the chief group in the lake. The species number in Hongze Lake decreased considerably compared to the historical data. Total phosphorus and temperature were important factors affecting the distribution of macroinvertebrates in the trunk, while pH, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll were the important factors in the lake. Sand mining, industrial and non-point pollution, and urbanization were the important factors causing degradation of whole aquatic ecosystems in the river basin. Two new alien species from the Yangtze River were first recorded in Hongze Lake, and the previous recorded alien species Nephthys sp. has spread into the whole lake and the trunk. Due to having similar histories of water pollution, the Huaihe would experience a process of recovery similar to the Rhine River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Reference conditions having no or only minor anthropogenic disturbances, are a basic requirement for ecological studies in rivers. To study ecological impact of a dam, two sites were pre-classified as reference or least disturbed in the Andhi Khola River, Nepal, using Rapid Field Bioscreening (RFB) protocol. Biological (macroinvertebrates) and physico-chemical samples were collected in the month of January and February 2013. Multi-habitat sampling (MHS) was employed in sample collection of macro-invertebrates fauna. Validation of the pre-classified sites was done using several indices viz. Nepalese biotic score (NEPBIOS), Biological monitoring working party (BMWP), Hindu-Kush Himalayan biotic score (HKHBIOS), Hilsenhoff (HILSENHOFF) & National Sanitation Foundation Water Quality Index (NSFWQI). The NEPBIOS, HKHBIOS, HILSENHOFF, RFB & NSFWQI indices predicted the river quality at all two sites as good with quality class II. Only BMWP/ASPT water quality index predicted the river quality at all two sites as Excellent with quality class I. Hence preselected sites with quality of rank II i.e. good qualities were validated as reference sites. The study demonstrated that the multi-metric approach is suitable for application in the monitoring and assessment of rivers where dams are built to produce hydropower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use changes in the Amazon region strongly impact soil macroinvertebrate communities, which are recognized as major drivers of soil functions ( Lavelle et al., 2006 ). To explore these relations, we tested the hypotheses that (i) soil macrofauna communities respond to landscape changes and (ii) soil macrofauna and ecosystem services are linked. We conducted a survey of macrofauna communities and indicators of ecosystem services at 270 sites in southern Colombia (department of Caqueta) and northern Brazil (state of Pará), two areas of the Amazon where family agriculture dominates. Sites represented a variety of land use types: forests, fallows, annual or perennial crops, and pastures. At each site we assessed soil macroinvertebrate density (18 taxonomic units) and the following ecosystem service indicators: soil and aboveground biomass carbon stock; water infiltration rate; aeration, drainage and water storage capacities based on pore-size distribution; soil chemical fertility; and soil aggregation. Significant covariation was observed between macrofauna communities and landscape metric data (co-inertia analysis: RV = 0.30, p < 0.01, Monte Carlo test) and between macrofauna communities and ecosystem service indicators (co-inertia analysis: RV = 0.35, p < 0.01, Monte Carlo test). Points located in pastures within 100 m of forest had greater macrofauna density and diversity than those located in pastures with no forest within 100 m (Wilcoxon rank sum test, p < 0.01). Total macroinvertebrate density was significantly correlated with macroporosity ( r 2 = 0.42, p < 0.01), as was the density of specific taxonomic groups: Chilopoda ( r 2 = 0.43, p < 0.01), Isoptera ( r 2 = 0.30, p < 0.01), Diplopoda ( r 2 = 0.31, p < 0.01), and Formicidae ( r 2 = 0.13, p < 0.01). Total macroinvertebrate density was also significantly correlated with available soil water ( r 2 = 0.38, p < 0.01) as well as other soil-service indicators (but with r 2 < 0.10). Results demonstrate that landscape dynamics and composition affect soil macrofauna communities, and that soil macrofauna density is significantly correlated with soil services in deforested Amazonia, indicating that soil macrofauna have an engineering and/or indicator function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundance, richness and composition of the community of the litter macro-fauna were preliminarily characterized, with emphasis on the Coleoptera order, in an agro-forested system with a silvopastoral management and association of the tree leguminous Leucaena leucocephala and the grass Megathyrsus maximus, and in another system of grassland, only with M. maximus. Both were located in San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque province. The study was carried out during the rainy periods of 2009 and 2010, in June and October, respectively. The epigeous macro-fauna was collected with pitfall traps. Eight traps were examined per system during the first sampling and 16 during the second. Curves of richness and curves of range/abundance were built for data processing. Two indexes of similarity were calculated. A total of 7,818 macro-invertebrates belonging to 20 orders were collected from the litter. From them, 321 were adult Coleopterans, grouped into 18 families and 33 morpho-species. The macro-fauna had higher values of richness of orders and abundance in the silvopastoral system of leucaena, mainly in October, 2010. The predominant orders, in both systems and moments of study, were Coleoptera and Hymenoptera. From the last one, the Formicidae family was mainly the predominant. The analysis of the Coleoptera order, at the level of morpho-species, showed higher richness and abundance in the silvopastoral system of leucaena, and the dominant morpho-specie, in both systems, was Scolytidae sp. 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]