Original paper
Ecological factors affecting ostracod distribution in lentic ecosystems in the Empordà Wetlands (NE Spain)
Gifre, Jaume; Quintana, Xavier D.; de la Barrera, Ricard; Martinoy, Mònica; Marquèz, Eduard
Archiv für Hydrobiologie Volume 154 Number 3 (2002), p. 499 - 514
39 references
published: Jul 1, 2002
DOI: 10.1127/archiv-hydrobiol/154/2002/499
ArtNo. ESP141015403007, Price: 29.00 €
Abstract
Species composition of ostracods and the ecological preferences of the most abundant species were studied in lentic ecosystems in the Empordà Wetlands (NW Spain). Physically and chemically the water here varies greatly due to differences in hydrology and the influence of the sea. We present the mean and range values for temperature, conductivity, pH alkalinity and nutrient composition (nitrogen, phosphorus, organic matter and chlorophyll) of the water bodies where each of the 19 species of ostracods has been found. Multivariate analysis was undertaken to illuminate the ecological preferences of the most abundant species. Water turnover rate, salinity (although this seems to be a consequence of its relationship to the water turnover rate, because most species are euryhaline), situations of high productivity and the ratio production/decomposition appear to be the principal factors affecting ostracod distribution in the Empordà Wetlands.
Keywords
Mediterranean wetlands • ecological preferences • water turnover rate • species distribution