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Hydrobiology
Number of Followers: 16  Open Access journalISSN (Online) 2673-9917 Published by MDPI  [258 journals]
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- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 521-536: Total Mass Flux in the Northern
Humboldt Current System: Rates and Contribution Sources from Central Peru
(12° S)
Authors: Bobby Leigh, Víctor Aramayo, Ursula Mendoza, Federico Velazco, Rainer Kiko, Patricia Ayón, Ernesto Fernández, Michelle Graco
First page: 521
Abstract: The total mass flux (TMF) of particulate organic matter (POM) is key for understanding the energetic transfer within the “biological pump” (i.e., involving the carbon cycle), reflecting a critical connection between the surface and the bottom. A fixed multi-sediment trap was installed at 30 m depth in Callao Bay, central Peru from March to December 2020. After recovery, samples were dried and weighed to calculate the TMF and pellet flux. The average TMF was 601.9 mg·m−2·day−1, with 70.2 and 860 mg·m−2·day−1 as the lowest and highest values during “normal conditions”. Zooplankton fecal pellets (ZFP) were found in ovoid (e.g., larvae) and cylindrical (e.g., adult copepods) shapes and their flux contribution to TMF was low, ranging from 0.17 to 85.59 mg·m−2·day−1. In contrast with ZFP, fish fecal pellets (FFP) were found in fragments with a cylindrical shape, and their contribution to the TMF was higher than ZFP, ranging from 1 to 92.56 mg·m−2·day−1. Mean sinking velocities were 4.63 ± 3.47 m·day−1 (ZFP) and 432.27 ± 294.26 m·day−1 (FFP). There is a considerable difference between the ZFP and FFP contributions to TMFs. We discuss the implications of these results regarding a still poorly understood process controlling the POM flux off the Peruvian coast.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-09-28
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2040035
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 4 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 537-553: Insights into Diatom Substrate
Preferences in the Inter-Tidal Zone of a Subarctic Coast
Authors: Emilie Arseneault, Reinhard Pienitz, Julie Carrière, Émilie Saulnier-Talbot
First page: 537
Abstract: Diatoms are reliable environmental bioindicators, but their application in coastal environments remains limited. Substrate has been put forward in the literature as an important variable in determining diatom habitat preferences. This study focuses on benthic diatom assemblages and their relationship with substrate specificity in a subarctic tidal environment, which could be relevant for environmental monitoring and management. A variety of substrates were sampled and physicochemical variables measured in various areas of the Bay of Sept-Îles region (northern Gulf of Saint-Lawrence, Canada). We recorded 606 species at 14 sites from 11 substrate types to determine the associations between diatoms and their habitats. Our results suggest that the variability of assemblages in the bay is the result of a combination of the identified variables (temperature, salinity, and total dissolved solids), explaining 26.5% of the variation, and other unmeasured variables (e.g., nutrients, wave action, and currents). Substrate was not identified as a significant variable in the statistical analyses. However, some common species in the surveyed assemblages appeared to show preferences for the substrates they colonized.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-10-30
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2040036
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 4 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 554-574: Niphargus carolinensis sp. nov.
(Amphipoda: Niphargidae), an Endemic Species in the Northern Distribution
Area of the Genus
Authors: Dieter Weber, Traian Brad
First page: 554
Abstract: Niphargus carolinensis sp. nov. was sampled from the Carolina Mine located in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany. The new species is described and compared to phylogenetically related species and species identified in nearby locations. The three phylogenetic markers (i.e., COI, 28S rRNA and ITS2) studied in the examined specimens had different sequences compared to those belonging to species present in locations neighboring the Carolina Mine, i.e., in a radius of 40 km. N. carolinensis sp. nov. is a small-to-medium-sized species that is poorly setose; has a relatively short antenna I, trapezoidal gnathopod propodites, long pereopod VI, and short uropod III; and is not differentiated sexually. The new species described herein is a case of narrow endemism and adds to the diversity of the genus Niphargus in Germany. This work is a contribution to knowledge on groundwater amphipod diversity and the systematics of the genus Niphargus close to the northern border of the distribution of this genus.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-10-30
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2040037
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 4 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 575-582: A Rarely Reported Crustacean Species,
Rissoides pallidus (Giesbrecht, 1910) (Stomatopoda, Squillidae), Caught in
the Strait of Sicily Waters (Central Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Giacomo Sardo, Michele Luca Geraci, Fabio Falsone, Charles Odilichukwu R. Okpala, Danilo Scannella, Antonino Titone, Sergio Vitale
First page: 575
Abstract: The mantis shrimp Rissoides pallidus (Giesbrecht, 1910) is a rarely reported crustacean species in the central Mediterranean Sea. In December 2020, during a trawl survey off Mazara del Vallo harbor (Strait of Sicily), two specimens of R. pallidus were captured on coastal detritus and coastal terrigenous mud bottoms at about 132 and 152 m depths. Additional information specific to biometrics, bottom types, depth preference, habitats, and geographic distribution of this crustacean species are provided.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-10-31
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2040038
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 4 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 583-601: How Tolerant Are Hydroids to
Climate-Change-Induced Acute Spikes in Sea Water Temperature' A Case Study
of Arctic Dynamena pumila (L., 1758)
Authors: Nikolay N. Marfenin, Vitaly S. Dementyev, Evgeny V. Nikolaev
First page: 583
Abstract: The temperature of the water surface layer in the Arctic may increase significantly in the coming decades. To what extent will shallow-water fauna be affected by warming' We investigated this issue using an example of one species of colonial hydroid, Dynamena pumila. We judged its reaction to warming via its pulsation activity and the growth of stolons. Pulsations of the coenosarc in colonial hydroids are a sensitive indicator of the body’s reaction to the influence of environmental factors. We tested the ability of D. pumila colonies to survive and adapt to existing at 25 °C for five days. After raising the temperature from 14 °C to 25 °C, colony growth and the pulsation of stolon growth tips on the first day increased and then decreased during the day. In the following days, the growth pulsations almost ceased, the colonies stopped growing, and their coenosarcs began to exfoliate from their perisarcs. However, by the fourth day, this process slowed down, and the colonies existed in an economy mode of experiencing unfavourable conditions. The thermal shock continued in the experiment for five days. Then, after the temperature dropped from 25 °C to 15–16 °C, all the colonies recovered within five days and continued to grow.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-11-13
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2040039
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 4 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 446-462: Short-Term Responses of Aquatic
Ecosystem and Macroinvertebrate Assemblages to Rehabilitation Actions in
Martil River (North-Western Morocco)
Authors: Achraf Guellaf, Jalal Kassout, Vladimiro Andrea Boselli, Nard Bennas, Majida El Alami, Sanae Errochdi, Kawtar Kettani
First page: 446
Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Martil River rehabilitation project and recently constructed dam infrastructures to reduce flood risks and to promote local socio-economic development on the ecological integrity of the river. The assessment focused on changes in fluvial landforms over time and the evaluation of aquatic ecosystems based on six physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, and chemical oxygen demand), morpho-hydrological variables (stream width, water depth, and current speed), habitat indices (QBR, IHF, and MQI), and macroinvertebrate assemblages of EPT, OCH, and Chironomidae (Diptera) at five stations from autumn 2015 to spring 2018 (prior to and during the rehabilitation actions). The results showed that the river rehabilitation project led to profound changes in Martil River’s ecosystem and water quality over time. Physicochemical and habitat measurements at the rehabilitated sites revealed a major change in macroinvertebrate communities due to changes in fluvial landforms in relation to flow-sediment regimes. As a result, some typical species of lentic habitats disappeared, while alien, opportunistic, and lotic species appeared.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-07-03
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030029
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 463-466: Ecology of Aquatic Invertebrates in
Springs and Headwater Streams: Imperiled Habitats in a Changing World
Authors: David E. Bowles, Weston H. Nowlin
First page: 463
Abstract: Headwater streams and springs and their resident biotas are vulnerable to a broad range of anthropogenic stressors [...]
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-07-17
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030030
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 467-474: Effects of Predation Tags on Growth
and Stress Response in Juvenile Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Emma K. Millsap, Nathan Huysman, Dylan A. Gravenhof, Mark J. Fincel, Michael E. Barnes
First page: 467
Abstract: Acid-sensitive predation tags have recently been introduced to fisheries management. The objective of this study was to ascertain the impact of these tags on juvenile rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss physiology and growth after implantation. Twenty approximately 13 g rainbow trout were placed into each of five tanks, with ten surgically implanted with dummy acid-sensitive predation tags and ten control fish not subjected to surgical procedures. Glucose, hematocrit, tag-retention, survival, and growth metrics were collected for 30 days post-surgery. Four tagged fish died while no control fish died. Tag retention was 76%, with tags lost in weeks 2, 3, and 4. Control fish were significantly longer and gained significantly more weight at the end of the experiment. Hematocrit levels for the tagged fish dropped significantly over the course of the trial and were 30% lower than those of the untagged control fish at the end of 30 days. Glucose levels were highly variable for both treatments. The results of this study indicate the negative impacts of predation tagging on the physiology of juvenile rainbow trout. Results from predation field trials should be interpreted with caution because the tagged fish are likely at a competitive disadvantage compared to their untagged conspecifics.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-07-20
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030031
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 475-490: Mechanical Removal of Minnows (Gila
bicolor) to Improve Water Quality in a Hydropower Impoundment, Lemolo
Lake, Oregon, USA
Authors: Joseph Eilers, Kellie Vache, Richard Grost
First page: 475
Abstract: A project to mechanically remove an over-abundant population of cyprinids (Gila bicolor) was tested in a hydropower impoundment, Lemolo Lake (USA). The netting program removed 29.7 tons of fish (163 kg/ha) over a seven-year period that resulted in a reduction in the intensity and duration of cyanobacteria blooms. However, the suppression of the tui chub population apparently allowed for a residual population of kokanee (Oncorhynchus nerka) to proliferate. The resurgence of the kokanee, combined with the initiation of a rainbow trout stocking program, offset some of the gains in water quality achieved with the reduction of tui chub biomass. The dominant cyanobacterium present in Lemolo Lake transitioned to Gloeotrichia echinulata in 2013, but the majority of these colonies were apparently derived from an upstream lake. The changes in water quality from 2005–2013 were simulated for Lemolo Lake using the two-dimensional, hydrodynamic model, CE-QUAL-W2. The model reproduced many aspects of the water quality in Lemolo Lake and was used, in combination with a simple Bayesian model, to evaluate a number of potential scenarios for further improving water quality in the impoundment. Promoting a deeper drawdown of the hydroelectric impoundment during the winter to selectively increase entrainment of tui chub and kokanee, combined with continued netting targeted at tui chub, was judged to offer the greatest opportunity to manage the facility for water quality, fisheries and hydropower objectives.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-08-17
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030032
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 491-506: Inhibitory Effect of Aqueous Extracts
from Egeria densa Planch. on Cyanobacteria Microcystis aeruginosa
(Kützing) Lemmermann Growth
Authors: Ashika Wijesinghe, Mudalige Don Hiranya Jayasanka Senavirathna, Takeshi Fujino
First page: 491
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the allelopathic effect of live Egeria densa Planch. and its aqueous extracts in inhibiting the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa (Kützing) Lemmermann through a possible growth inhibition pathway. Under coexistence, the presence of live E. densa reduced the growth of M. aeruginosa by 48% compared to when M. aeruginosa was alone. Consequently, we prepared two separate aqueous extracts with distilled water: one from E. densa plants collected from monocultures, and the other from E. densa plants collected from co-cultivation with M. aeruginosa. At a concentration of 0.5 g/L, both extracts successfully suppressed the growth of M. aeruginosa throughout the 5-day exposure period. The extracts obtained from E. densa plants grown in a combined culture with M. aeruginosa showed significant growth-inhibiting capabilities compared to the extracts obtained from E. densa monoculture (p < 0.05). They showed 22% more growth inhibition compared to cultures exposed to monoculture extracts at day 5, indicating that the production of allelochemicals in E. densa was induced during co-existence with cyanobacteria. However, the higher concentrations (2 and 4 g/L) of both extracts did not effectively exhibit a successful inhibitive ability, possibly due to the presence of high nutrient concentrations, specifically PO43−, which may be potentially suppressing the activity of allelochemicals. Further studies are recommended in identifying the specific allelochemicals and exploring their practical implementation in the field.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-09-15
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030033
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 507-520: The Potential Use of Remote
Underwater Video (RUV) to Evaluate Small-Bodied Fish Assemblages
Authors: John B. Tweedie, Jaclyn M.H. Cockburn, Paul V. Villard
First page: 507
Abstract: Successful aquatic ecosystem conversation strategies depend on high-quality data from monitoring studies and improved habitat requirement knowledge. Remote Underwater Video (RUV) is a non-extractive alternative to capture-based techniques for studying and monitoring fish and is increasingly used in smaller channels. This study uses field observations made with waterproof Sony HDR-AS100V action cameras positioned in stream channels to determine species and population during various flow conditions across three sites within the Credit River Watershed, Ontario, Canada. Six fish species were identified, and individual fish lengths were estimated using the inverse square law to proportionally adjust size scales to fish positions relative to the camera. Successful identification and measurements were limited by turbidity, with camera placements in >6 NTU conditions (18% of all placements) resulting in at least one fish observed in the frame. With over 24 h of video recordings with 94 individual video clips, the optimal filming duration was determined to be 20–25 min. RUV surveys provide managers with useful monitoring data regarding fish present in an environment in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Additionally, as the method is largely non-invasive, RUV surveys are especially useful for studying fish behaviour, sensitive or endangered species, and working in difficult-to-access channels (e.g., shallow, faster flow).
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-09-20
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2030034
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 3 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 289-313: Life History Strategy of Maurolicus
muelleri (Gmenlin, 1789) in the Bay of Biscay
Authors: Paula Alvarez, Maria Korta, Dorleta Garcia, Guillermo Boyra
First page: 289
Abstract: Maurolicus muelleri is a significant component of the marine ecosystem and has the potential to be a valuable fishery resource. However, in the Bay of Biscay, its primary biological traits remain unclear. This study presents data on the length distribution, age, growth, maturity ogive, spawning season, batch fecundity, and sex ratio for Maurolicus muelleri captured in the Bay of Biscay. The results showed that in spring, the adult spawners (ages of 1 and 2) were dominant in the catches, while in September, immature juveniles (age of 0) born in spring were mostly found. Using standard lengths as a basis, 50% of the fish were mature at 34.1 mm (both sexes combined), and the sex ratio, male to female, was 0.44:0.56. The proportion of females increased with length, and a 1:1 sex ratio was predicted at a standard length of 41.5 mm. The spawning season was allocated to at least between March and September, with a likely peak in May. The batch fecundity ranged from 114 to 919 oocytes/female, and increased with the weight and length of females. The results allowed us to interpret a life history strategy for this species, i.e., a high fecundity for females, which mostly participate in one or two reproductive seasons. Therefore, any possible exploitation of age 0 fish prior to spawning could lead to a decrease in the population from which recovery could be slow.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-04-14
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020019
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 311-325: Mass Mortality of Shallow-Water
Temperate Corals in Marine Protected Areas of the North Aegean Sea
(Eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Chryssanthi Antoniadou, Martha Pantelidou, Maria Skoularikou, Chariton Charles Chintiroglou
First page: 311
Abstract: Coral mortality is a global phenomenon of increasing magnitude, correlated with climate change. Prolonged marine heatwaves have particularly affected the north Aegean Sea in summer 2021, threatening shallow-water stony corals, such as Balanophyllia europaea and Cladocora caespitosa. To assess their population status, ten coastal, rocky-bottom stations dispersed in Natura 2000 sites of Chalkidiki (north Aegean) were surveyed using non-destructive techniques in autumn 2021. At each station, corals’ abundance was estimated in situ, by counting the number of B. europaea polyps within randomly placed 50 × 50 cm quadrats, and the number of C. caespitosa colonies along three replicate belt transects 1 × 10 m. The status of corals was qualitatively assigned as healthy, bleached (partially or complete), or in necrosis (partial or complete). B. europaea was found in 80% of stations; in total, 58.17% of the coral specimens were affected by necrosis. C. caespitosa was found in 30% of stations; in total, 27.49% of the coral colonies were partially bleached and 11.32% in necrosis. Another nine sessile invertebrates (sponges, bivalves, and ascidians) were observed in necrosis. These results highlight the need to establish monitoring programs on vulnerable sessile invertebrate populations along the Aegean Sea to assess climate change impacts.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-04-30
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020020
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 326-346: Implementation and Optimization of
Algal Biomass in Value-Added Products Recovery: A Step towards Algae-Based
Green Economy
Authors: Nalok Dutta, Pritha Kundu, Jonathan Tian En Lee, Sayan Bhattacharya
First page: 326
Abstract: Algal biomass is a prospective feedstock for the eco-sustainable production of many different products with added value, such as meals, feeds, and fuels. The remaining biomass from the algae can be used as raw material and can be transformed into useful secondary products after the important macromolecules have been removed. By optimizing algal biomass hydrolysate utilizing microbial fermentation, several studies demonstrated the generation of bioenergy (bioalcohol, biogas, and biohydrogen) and biochemicals (organic acids and biopolymers). Since the harvest and maintenance of sustainable algal cultivation incur considerable energy and economical prowess, developing products from algae remains a challenge to be countered in commercial applications. This is a typical bottleneck issue when processing algae for fuels or chemicals at the pilot scale. Implementation of integrated algae biorefinery methods can substantially reduce the cost of production and energy consumption. An algae-based green economy can be financially more viable and utilizable, especially for countries with weaker economies. This review’s goal is to examine the implementation of integrated biorefineries for the recovery of bioproducts generated from algae and potential applications. In this context, the life cycle analysis and business elements of a unified algal biorefinery are also addressed.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-05-13
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020021
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 347-353: Optimising Kelp Cultivation to Scale
up Habitat Restoration Efforts: Effect of Light Intensity on “Green
Gravel” Production
Authors: Silvia Chemello, Isabel Sousa Pinto, Tania R. Pereira
First page: 347
Abstract: Kelp forests are disappearing worldwide due to climate change and human stressors, highlighting the need for active interventions. A new restoration approach, “green gravel”, has been shown to be a potentially effective tool to restore endangered kelp forests. However, green gravel is still a novel technique that needs better experimentation and optimisation at all process stages. Contamination by other algal species is one of the critical factors in early-stage green gravel production because their overgrowth can lead to the loss of the seeded material. In this study, we assessed the effect of light intensity on kelp growth and on the coverage of contaminating algae on green gravel. Our results show that under high lights, kelps displayed faster growth (recruits on average more than three times the size and covering a six-times-larger area in high light intensity than in low light), but there was also a higher percentage of contaminating algae. In contrast, the green gravel cultivated under low lights showed almost no signs of algal contamination, but the area occupied by kelps and the length of the lamina were dramatically lower. Due to the cultivation conditions, opportunistic species can grow fast. This advantage is expected to disappear once the green gravel is deployed. To obtain cleaner cultures and to avoid the risk of losing the cultivated material, we would advise starting rearing under lower light intensity to reduce the risk of contamination but ensure kelp growth and then increasing the light intensity to boost it. Clear and appropriate protocols are absolutely necessary to minimise production costs and times and for the scaling-up of future attempts at marine forest restoration.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-05-16
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020022
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 354-362: Flight Capacity and Response to
Habitat Drying of Endemic Diving Beetles (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) in
Arkansas (USA)
Authors: Scott D. Longing, Daniel D. Magoulick
First page: 354
Abstract: The ability to colonize new habitat is essential for wild populations affected by disturbance or other forms of habitat change. For aquatic insects in small streams, overland flight is an important strategy for dispersal when barriers to in-stream migration exist and when populations are isolated in upland habitats. Two Ozark-endemic water beetles (Heterosternuta sulphuria and Heterosternuta phoebeae) have shown little overlap in distributions, with the former frequently occurring in small upland watersheds and the latter occurring in aquatic habitats farther downstream in larger watersheds. Because H. sulphuria has been associated with perennial aquatic habitats, we hypothesized that H. sulphuria individuals could exhibit low capacity for flight, thereby affecting population distributions over time. Laboratory flight observations showed that zero individuals of H. sulphuria flew (n = 67), whereas 17 of 76 individuals of H. phoebeae were observed to fly. Stream habitat drying experiments provided further evidence of the weak capacity for flight and overland migration of H. sulphuria, with low probabilities of survivorship in microhabitats exposed to drying. Weak flight capacity and apparent intolerance to habitat drying have important implications for the evolutionary history and conservation of H. sulphuria in small Ozark streams exposed to variable flow regimes and stream margins vulnerable to disturbances.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-05-24
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020023
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 363-381: Evaluation of the Relationship
between Stream Habitat Quality and Taxa and Trait Richness and Diversity
in Piedmont Streams in North Carolina
Authors: Anthony J. Roux, Sandra M. Clinton
First page: 363
Abstract: As impervious cover increases with urban development, stream channels are degraded by increased stormwater runoff, which negatively impacts stream habitat quality and benthic macroinvertebrate diversity. We examined the relationship between stream habitat diversity and aquatic insect taxa and trait richness and diversity at the watershed scale in 30 streams, covering a gradient of stream habitat quality. We then quantified the relationship between taxa and trait richness and diversity and seven microhabitats at the reach scale in ten streams with high habitat quality. We found that both taxa richness and diversity declined at a greater rate than trait richness and diversity along an in-stream habitat diversity gradient. Taxa richness was positively correlated with pools, runs, backwater, leaf packs, and riffles, while trait richness was positively correlated with runs, small wood, and riffles. Taxa diversity was positively correlated with pools and leaf packs while trait diversity was positively correlated with runs, leaf packs, small wood, and riffles. An indicator species analysis revealed that specific taxa and traits were associated with specific microhabitats or combinations of microhabitats. By correlating the taxa in urban streams with specific microhabitats, we can better evaluate the success of stream restoration in restoring stream function and in stimulating benthic macroinvertebrate recovery.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-05-26
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020024
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 382-394: Taxonogenomic Analysis of
Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. N11-50 and the Profile of NRPS and PKS
Gene Clusters
Authors: Hisayuki Komaki, Yasuhiro Igarashi, Tomohiko Tamura
First page: 382
Abstract: Streptomyces sp. N11-50 was isolated from deep-sea water and found to produce diketopiperazine (DKP) compounds such as albonoursin and cyclo(Phe-Leu). This study aimed to reveal the potential to synthesize diverse nonribosomal peptide and polyketide compounds as the other secondary metabolites different from DKP after clarifying the taxonomic position. Strain N11-50 was identified as Streptomyces albus, as it showed 100% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities and 95.5% DNA–DNA relatedness to S. albus NBRC 13014T. We annotated the nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) and polyketide synthase (PKS) gene clusters in the genome. Consequently, five NRPS, one hybrid PKS/NRPS, five type-I PKS and one type-II PKS gene clusters were observed, of which we predicted the products through bioinformatic analysis. These gene clusters were well conserved in already whole-genome sequence (WGS)-published strains belonging to S. albus. On the other hand, our taxonogenomic analysis revealed that three WGS-published S. albus strains were not S. albus. Two of the three should be classified as Streptomyces albidoflavus, and the remaining one was likely a new genomospecies. After reclassifying these appropriately, we demonstrated species-specific profiles of the NRPS and PKS gene clusters with little strain-level diversities.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-06-02
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020025
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 395-409: Pharmaceuticals in Water: Risks to
Aquatic Life and Remediation Strategies
Authors: Aqib Hassan Ali Khan, Rocío Barros
First page: 395
Abstract: The presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment presents a challenge to modern science. The most significant impact this can induce is the emergence of antibiotic resistance, which can lead to a global health emergency. It is important to note that the impact of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is not limited to antibiotic resistance. Pharmaceuticals can also affect the behaviour and reproductive systems of aquatic organisms, with cascading effects on entire ecosystems. Numerous studies have reported the emergence of pharmaceuticals due to the uncontrolled disposal of polluted domestic, agricultural, and industrial wastewater in water bodies. This work discusses the potential of pharmaceuticals that on one hand are highly important for mankind, yet their non-judicious usage and disposal induce equally intriguing and problematic conditions to the health of aquatic systems. Pathways through which pharmaceutics can make their way into water bodies are discussed. Furthermore, the risk imposed by pharmaceuticals on aquatic life is also elaborated. The possible and pragmatic remediation methods through which pharmaceutical products can be treated are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on the potential of phytoremediation and advanced oxidative process, and the factors affecting the efficacy of these remediation methods are discussed.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-06-14
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020026
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 410-430: Recurringly Hypoxic: Bottom Water
Oxygen Depletion Is Linked to Temperature and Precipitation in a Great
Lakes Estuary
Authors: Nathan M. Dugener, Anthony D. Weinke, Ian P. Stone, Bopaiah A. Biddanda
First page: 410
Abstract: Hypolimnetic hypoxia is expanding globally due to anthropogenic eutrophication and climate warming. Muskegon Lake, a Great Lakes estuary, experiences annually recurring hypoxia, impairing ecological, social, and economic benefits. Using high-frequency, time-series Muskegon Lake Observatory (MLO) data, we quantified the dynamics of hypoxia and developed a hypoxia severity index to estimate the spatiotemporal extent of hypoxia during 2011–2021. We also analyzed United States Geological Survey’s temperature and discharge data on the Muskegon River to explain the annual variability in the hypoxia severity index. Severe hypoxia occurred in warmer years with greater stratification, fewer wind mixing events, warmer winter river temperatures, and less winter and spring precipitation, as in 2012 and 2021. Conversely, milder hypoxia was prevalent in colder years with a later stratification onset, more mixing events, colder river temperatures, and more winter and spring precipitation, as in 2015 and 2019. Thus, knowledge of environmental conditions prior to the onset of stratification may be useful for predicting the potential severity of hypoxia for any year. While consistent multi-year trends in hypoxia were not discernible, our findings suggest that temperature and precipitation are major drivers of hypoxia and that as surface waters warm, it will lead to the further deoxygenation of Earth’s inland waters.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-06-17
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020027
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 431-445: DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetics
Relationship of Pangasiid Catfishes in Peninsular Malaysia Revealed the
Impacts of Aquaculture on the Native Species Conservation
Authors: Baharuddin Haslawati, Md Ali Amatul-Samahah, Mohammed Rizman-Idid, Sekaran Muniandy
First page: 431
Abstract: Pangasiids are an economically significant group of catfish, and many pangasiids are threatened in the wild from anthropogenic pressures, including increases in fishing pressure, habitat degradation, and improperly managed aquaculture practices. This study demonstrates the usage of DNA barcoding of the Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COI) gene as an identification tool in detecting potentially threatening invasive pangasiid species by establishing the diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Pangasiidae catfishes in Peninsular Malaysia. A neighbour-joining (NJ) dendrogram (Kimura-2-parameter model) generated five clades to represent distinct genera. Pangasius was further subdivided into two clades (Clade A: Pangasius bocourti-P. djambal and Clade B: P. nasutus-P. conchophilus). Given the marginal genetic divergence, indigenous and non-native species should be treated cautiously in allopatrically distributed species. The analysis used Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) and revealed barcode gaps between the intraspecific and interspecific distances. The sequences were partitioned into five groupings, corresponding with the species delineation based on the distribution of pairwise differences, which could not be differentiated using the NJ dendrogram. ABGD allows the recognition of one or two additional species using the recursive approach, but other taxonomic methods should be considered for a solid conclusion. DNA barcoding demonstrates the identification of closely related species, thus justifying its application towards the conservation of these fish.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-06-20
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2020028
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 2 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 44-54: The Potentials for the Ecological
Management of Landscape Connectivity Including Aquatic Ecosystems in
Northeast Albania
Authors: Laura Shumka, Andi Papastefani, Spase Shumka, Sotir Mali
First page: 44
Abstract: At the landscape level, freshwater ecosystems are linked at various spatial and temporal scales by movements of different fauna components adapted to life in water. We review the literature on the state of landscape connectivity and related aquatic species that connect different types of freshwater habitats, focusing on linkages from streams, large rivers and standing water bodies. Based on existing evidence, it is clear that biotic linkages throughout current mosaic have important consequences for biological integrity and biodiversity. The recent developments with regard to urbanization, expansion of urban centers, infrastructure development, and hydropower plant construction in Albania are in line with global destruction and fragmentation of habitats resulting in the parceling up of landscapes that, in this very case, have been caused by human population growth and development activities. The primary aim of this article is to address the landscape connectivity in a wider northeastern part of Albania considering various protected areas. The landscape connectivity is a pillar component of connectivity conservation that has emerged as a response approach to a range of threats to biodiversity, which include habitat degradation and destruction, fragmentation and climate changes. The approach analyses of landscape connectivity were defined from a human perspective in a linkage among different protected areas, including National Park Albanian Alps, Nature Park Korrab-Koritnik, National Park ShebenikJabllanica, Pogradec Landscape Protected Areas and National Park Prespa. The basis of this analysis lies in the Network of Protected Areas (NPAs) of Albania. Cumulatively, the protected areas connectivity, aquatic ecosystem linkage and individual movements connect populations within and among landscape mosaics and contribute to national and regional diversity and resilience to disturbance. This study highlights the importance of considering both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems connectivity in conservation planning and management.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-04
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010004
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 55-74: The Evolution of Life History Traits
and Their Thermal Plasticity in Daphnia
Authors: Larry L. Bowman; Jr., David M. Post
First page: 55
Abstract: Few studies have explored the relative strength of ecogeographic versus lineage-specific effects on a global scale, particularly for poikilotherms, those organisms whose internal temperature varies with their environment. Here, we compile a global dataset of life history traits in Daphnia, at the species-and population-level, and use those data to parse the relative influences of lineage-specific effects and climate. We also compare the thermal response (plasticity) of life history traits and their dependence on climate, temperature, precipitation, and latitude. We found that the mode of evolution for life history traits varies but that the thermal response of life history traits most often follows a random walk model of evolution. We conclude that life history trait evolution in Daphnia is not strongly species-specific but is ecogeographically distinct, suggesting that life history evolution should be understood at the population level for Daphnia and possibly for other poikilotherms.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-06
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010005
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 75-96: Ecosystem Services Provided by Seaweeds
Authors: João Cotas, Louisa Gomes, Diana Pacheco, Leonel Pereira
First page: 75
Abstract: The ecosystem services can be divided using two major classification systems, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) and the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES). In the MEA system, the ecosystem services are divided into four major service clusters: supporting, provisioning, regulating, and cultural. On the other hand, the CICES system regards the “MEA supporting services” as organism natural function (and not an ecosystem service). Thus, this function is the basis for all the three CICES ecosystem services (provisioning, regulating, and cultural) provided by one organism. These ecosystem services can be analyzed for the type of habitat, fauna or flora. Seaweeds, or marine macroalgae, are one of the key organisms in estuarine and seawater habitats ecosystems, which currently is of extreme importance due to the climate changes and the blue–green economy. Seaweeds and humankind have been interlinked from the beginning, mainly as a food source, fibers, biochemicals, natural medicine, ornamental resources, art inspiration, and esthetic values in several coastal communities. Moreover, currently they are being studied as green carbon, carbon sequestration, and as a possible source for the biomedical and pharmaceutical areas. This review is a concise review of all ecological services provided by seaweeds and their impact in the human life and maintenance of the ecosystem status quo. The future of seaweeds use is also approached, regarding the promotion of seaweed ecological services and its dangers in the future.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-09
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010006
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 97-133: Biogeography of Selected Spring
Endemics in Texas Interglacial-Drought Refugia with Unexpected Insights
from a Spring-Dependent Nematode Parasite
Authors: Mclean L. D. Worsham, Alan Bond, James Randy Gibson, David G. Huffman
First page: 97
Abstract: The contemporary distribution of crenobiontic endemics in central Texas is enigmatic because only some springs are occupied by crenobionts despite other unoccupied springs having seemingly suitable habitats. In the absence of complete paleo-records, a cohesive and widely accepted explanation for this biogeography has eluded researchers for many years. We suggest that data on contemporary species with obligate coevolution, such as parasites with multiple obligate hosts in their life cycles, can help to fill intervening gaps in the paleo-record because the contemporary distribution of such a parasite indicates that its hosts cohabitated without interruption since the arrival of the parasite. To test this conjecture, we studied one such parasite endemic to a select few central Texas springs, Huffmanela huffmani. By studying the distribution of the intermediate host, geologic and paleo-climatic records, performing lab experiments with live animals, and examining archived museum specimens of the definitive hosts from the 1950s, we were able to test multiple predictions about how the distribution of H. huffmani became what it is today. Our results corroborate a narrative suggesting that several severe droughts since the Wisconsin glaciations are responsible for having sculpted the present-day distribution of central Texas crenobionts.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-09
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010007
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 134-149: An Approach for Managing Landscapes
for a Variety of Ecosystem Services in Prespa Lakes Watershed
Authors: Dorina Grazhdani
First page: 134
Abstract: The main goal of this research was to evaluate how well existing and emerging land management practices may be used to manage landscapes for various ecosystem services. By employing a mixed methods approach and conducting a case study in the Prespa Lakes watershed in southeast Europe, this goal was achieved. The necessary information was initially gathered using a semi-stratified survey. Following that, the primary ecosystem services and land management practices present in Prespa Lakes watershed were determined via a workshop and a Delphi survey. The identified ecosystem services were ranked using the multi-criteria analytical hierarchy process method. The most important ecosystem service topics included tourism and recreation, maintenance of healthy water bodies, wildlife habitats, healthy food production, natural and heritage values, and biodiversity. Finally, a set of primary priority land management practices for meeting production and ecosystem service goals in the current conditions of the Prespa Lakes watershed was produced utilizing a ranking framework. The very high priority land management practices include livestock breeding to meet both production and conservation objectives, organic farming, diversified crop rotation, crop and tree diversity, restored wetlands, and planning at landscape level. This study provides an important tool for assessing changes in ecosystem service provision under alternative land management practices.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-12
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010008
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 150: Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of
Hydrobiology in 2022
Authors: Hydrobiology Editorial Office Hydrobiology Editorial Office
First page: 150
Abstract: High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-01-18
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010009
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 151-161: Classification and Secondary
Metabolite-Biosynthetic Gene Clusters of Marine Streptomyces Strains
Including a Lobophorin- and Divergolide-Producer
Authors: Hisayuki Komaki, Tomohiko Tamura, Yasuhiro Igarashi
First page: 151
Abstract: Two Streptomyces strains, named N11-26 and DC10-5, were isolated from deep-sea and non-photosynthetic stony coral, respectively. Strain N11-26 produces lobophorin C and divergolides, which are antimicrobial substances. This study aimed to classify these strains and reveal their cryptic potential to synthesize other secondary metabolites, such as polyketides and nonribosomal peptides. Strains N11-26 and DC10-5 showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of 100% and 99.9% to Streptomyces olivaceus NRRL B-3009T, respectively. By digital DNA–DNA hybridization using whole-genome sequences, these strains were classified as Streptomyces olivaceus. Strain N11-26 was closer to the type strain of S. olivaceus than strain DC10-5 and possessed 17 clusters of polyketide synthase (PKS) and/or nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) genes, whereas strain DC10-5 harbored 19 clusters. Putative products by these gene clusters were predicted by bioinformatic analyses. Although 15 clusters were conserved between the two strains, two and four clusters were specific in strains N11-26 and DC10-5, respectively. This represents a diversity of potential polyketide and nonribosomal peptide compounds between strains of S. olivaceus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report annotating all the PKS and NRPS gene clusters in S. olivaceus strains with their putative products to provide useful information for genome mining.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-01
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010010
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 162-180: Hydrobiology of Saline Agriculture
Authors: Rayhana Akter, Nazmul Hasan, Farhadur Reza, Md. Asaduzzaman, Kohinoor Begum, Mashura Shammi
First page: 162
Abstract: The aim of this review paper is to identify the production trends of shrimp and rice farming systems and associated hydrobiological parameters such as salinity in the coastal districts of Bangladesh. An intensive literature review has been conducted to explore salt stress-driven land use change, crop production, and changing ecosystem hydrobiology to adapt climate change impact from 2012–2022. The results indicate that a gradual extension of salt-driven land use and land cover (LULC) change has stressed agricultural production to a greater extent from 1973 to 2022 due to the high level of salinity. The unplanned expansion of shrimp culture is creating adverse consequences for the coastal ecosystem. Some suggestions have been proposed by analysing the mechanisms of crops’ response to salt stress, including several physiological, biochemical, and molecular bases to mitigate the adverse effects of salinity on agricultural production. Alternatively, prawn, shrimp, and crab have similar or slightly higher economic outputs, except for the crop-based agricultural system, which is highly affected by salinity rise. However, due to low input costs, low maintenance, and less environmental impact, farmers are shifting towards crab fattening and thus changing the hydrobiology of coastal land use and land cover.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-02
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010011
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 181-195: Using Fish Assemblages to Assess the
Ecological Effects of Marine Protection on Rocky Habitats in a Portuguese
Natural Park
Authors: Nuno Castro, Tadeu J. Pereira, André Costa, Joana Sertório, António Fernandes, Maria J. Tavares, João J. Castro
First page: 181
Abstract: Intensive and regular fishing occurs in the marine area of the natural park “Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina” (PNSACV; SW coast of continental Portugal). In 2011, this area became a marine park with different protection levels (total, partial, and complementary). We assessed in 2011 and 2012 if partial protection (PP) in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) changed the taxa richness, abundance, size, and community composition of cryptic and non-cryptic fishes. We also determined if these effects were observed outside PP areas in adjacent control areas. Underwater visual censuses (UVC) of cryptic and non-cryptic fish species were conducted in rocky subtidal habitats (~10 m deep) with band transects (25 × 2 m and 25 × 4 m, respectively) to determine abundance and size classes. The northern half of the PNSACV was sampled at a scale of tens (site—two sites per area; 4–6 transects per site) and hundreds (area) of meters. Two PP and six control areas were sampled. The homogeneity and abundance of bottom habitat types were assessed at each site. Effects of protection were not detected in the community structure or univariate analyses (i.e., taxa richness and total abundance) of non-cryptic and cryptic fishes. The early phase of the MPAs may have driven the lack of significant protection effects. Replication in time within a monitoring program is recommended to assess these conservation measures’ ecological effects.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-02
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010012
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 196-211: Predicting Habitat and Distribution
of an Interior Highlands Regional Endemic Winter Stonefly (Allocapnia
mohri) in Arkansas Using Random Forest Models
Authors: Brianna Annaratone, Camryn Larson, Clay Prater, Ashley Dowling, Daniel D. Magoulick, Michelle A. Evans-White
First page: 196
Abstract: Stoneflies are a globally threatened aquatic insect order. In Arkansas, a diverse group of winter stonefly (Capniidae: Allocapnia) have not been surveyed since the 1980s, likely because species-level identification requires the rarely-collected adult form. Allocapnia mohri, a regional endemic, was previously commonly found in mountainous, intermittent streams from the Ouachita Mountains ecoregion north to the Ozark Highlands, but no species distributional models including land use or climate variables exist to our knowledge. We collected adults from 71 stream reaches from the historic Arkansas range from November to April 2020 and 2021. We modeled distributions using random forest (RF) models populated with landscape, climate, and both data to determine which were most predictive of species presence. Correlations between landscape or climate variables and presence were examined using multiple logistic regression. The landscape RF models performed better than the climate or landscape + climate RF models. A. mohri presence sites tended to have a greater elevation, a lower mean July temperature, and a greater percentage of very slow infiltration soils in the watershed, compared to absence sites. A. mohri was absent at the Ouachita Mountains sites and may be experiencing a range contraction or migration northward.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-06
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010013
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 212-234: Small Indigenous Fish: A Potential
Source of Valuable Nutrients in the Context of Bangladesh
Authors: Md Rakibul Islam, Momota Yeasmin, Sultana Sadia, Md Sadek Ali, Ahmed Redwan Haque, Vikash Chandra Roy
First page: 212
Abstract: Peoples can readily and affordably obtain small indigenous fish species (SIS), with a maximum length of 25 cm, that can be found in niches in small bodies of water (such as canals, ponds, wetlands, streams, etc.). SIS contribute valuable and significant macro- and micronutrients in Bangladesh. SIS are excellent suppliers of vitamins and minerals. The main micronutrients are copper, iodine, iron, selenium, chromium, and zinc, which can help prevent mineral deficiency and enzymatic response in the human body. SIS, such as the mola (Amblypharyngodon mola), cotio (Osteobrama cotio), darkina (Esomus danricus), etc., are easily digestible by the human gut. Nutrients of these fish are quickly accessible by the intestine. These fish are comparatively cheap and easy to capture and promote the presence of particular vitamins in SIS, including A, D, E, and K, as well as vitamin B components. This review paper focuses on the SIS nutritional contribution and their efficacy of preventing malnutrition in developing countries such as Bangladesh and the whole world.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-06
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010014
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 235-243: Importance of EU Integration for
Biodiversity and Nature Conservation in Transboundary Protected Areas
(TPAs) in the Western Balkan
Authors: Aleko Miho, Jani Marka, Zenel Krasniqi
First page: 235
Abstract: There are many important protected areas in the Western Balkan region, which are shared between Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. These areas have special importance based on their species density (mosses and higher plants) per surface unit. These transboundary ecosystems, which include mountainous massifs, lakes, and rivers, are biodiversity hotspots for the whole of Europe. Species and habitat densities are high compared to other countries in Southeast Europe. However, political borders fragment properly across two or three countries, which often have different approaches and rules for nature protection and the use of resources. Hence, in this short opinion piece, we stress common and cooperative transboundary protection and management in these countries. Furthermore, the European Union’s policy towards the Western Balkan countries in the Stabilization and Association Process (SAP), with the goal of their eventual EU membership, is crucial. Therefore, our appeal is addressed not only to the respective local communities and national governments but also to the European Commission and related EU institutions. We stress the importance of these cross-border ecosystems in the integration process.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010015
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 244-259: Diversity and Seasonality of Aquatic
Beetles (Coleoptera) in Three Localities of the State of Tlaxcala, Central
Mexico
Authors: Alba Magali Luna-Luna, Caleb Califre Martins, Carlos Lara, Atilano Contreras-Ramos
First page: 244
Abstract: Aquatic beetle diversity was compared between three study sites in the state of Tlaxcala, central Mexico: Stream 1 (San Ambrosio), stream 2 (San Tadeo), and a lake (Acuitlapilco). Sampling took place bimonthly during an annual cycle. A total of 2968 specimens were obtained, which were grouped into twenty three species, fifteen genera, and six families (Elmidae, Dryopidae, Dytiscidae, Gyrinidae, Haliplidae, and Hydrophilidae). Stream 2 showed the highest values of abundance (1570 individuals), while stream 1 had the highest richness (18 species). Abundance values showed two peaks each in rainy and dry seasons. The proportion of rare and dominant species was similar in all study sites. Based on species accumulation curves, the maximum estimated number of species has not been achieved in either of the three sites. Regarding alpha diversity (effective number of species), stream 1 presented the highest zero-order diversity estimated with 18.5 species. Regarding beta diversity, lotic systems (streams 1 and 2) presented a similarity of 75%. Finally, regarding the trophic structure of the adult aquatic beetle community, herbivores, predators, and decomposers were most representative in this study. Based on our results, Tlaxcala probably holds a significant diversity of aquatic beetles. This appears to indicate that species composition in geographic areas, regardless of their relatively small size, is worth documenting and, of course, preserving.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-03-02
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010016
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 260-276: Odonata as Indicators' Dragonflies
Authors: Cameron R. Cheri, Debra S. Finn
First page: 260
Abstract: The Odonata are not typically regarded as informative taxa for stream bioassessment in North America compared to other insects, particularly when monitoring the ecological impacts of organic pollution. However, we hypothesized that stream-dwelling odonates are useful bioindicators of riparian conditions because vegetation associated with streams is used for oviposition and establishing breeding territories and is likely a cue for a suitable nymphal habitat. We sampled odonates from multiple microhabitats and all macroinvertebrates from riffle habitat in 12 Ozark Highlands (USA) spring streams along a gradient of riparian conditions. We also measured a standard suite of physical and chemical variables in each stream. We compared various aspects of the odonate and riffle macroinvertebrate assemblages among sites to evaluate sensitivity to variables associated with riparian structure compared to the other physical and chemical variables measured. The odonates were strongly associated with riparian-specific variables, while riffle macroinvertebrates were associated with riparian variables to a lesser degree. The additional environmental variables explained minimal variation in either assemblage. Overall, our results suggest that Odonata alone could be useful for biomonitoring associated with riparian structure around Ozark spring streams. The sensitivity of odonates to riparian conditions in other Nearctic regions should be further studied to identify regional and species-specific differences.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-03-05
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010017
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
- Hydrobiology, Vol. 2, Pages 277-288: Population Status of the Tropical
Freshwater Shrimp Xiphocaris elongata in Urban and Forest Streams in
Puerto Rico
Authors: Wesley X. Torres-Perez, Omar Perez-Reyes
First page: 277
Abstract: Most of the human population lives in cities, and understanding their impact on freshwater environments is essential. Streams in cities face many environmental challenges that have been described in the concept of Urban Stream Syndrome. This concept illustrates urban streams’ biological, hydrological, chemical, and physical stressors. In tropical streams, these stressors impact shrimp, fish, insects, and other macroinvertebrates that inhabit the freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater shrimp are vulnerable to urban activities, physical, chemical, and ecological impacts. For this reason, these organisms have been used as biological indicators of stream health in the tropics. The shredder shrimp Xiphocaris elongata plays a fundamental role in the organic matter process and decomposition. The objectives of this study were to characterize the population of X. elongata and to identify differences in the abundance of X. elongata between urban and forest streams. Our results showed that highly urbanized areas have a significantly lower abundance of the shredder shrimp X. elongata than medium or low urban reach in the urban and forested watersheds. This study also showed that physicochemical and geomorphological variables are important environmental factors that influence the abundance of X. elongata in Puerto Rican streams.
Citation: Hydrobiology
PubDate: 2023-03-17
DOI: 10.3390/hydrobiology2010018
Issue No: Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023)
