Factors Affecting Chironomid Larval Abundances in Three Vertical Aquatic Weed Habitats

Abstract

Multivariate analyses are used to separate chironomid larval habitats, describe relationships between midge larval populations, and evaluate influences of biotic and abiotic variables on abundances in a lake system. Insect predators of 5 types of chironomid larvae had only a minor to moderate influence on midge densities in all habitats examined. Availability of aquatic weed did not have a major influence on abundance of larval midges. Water quality had greater influence in midwater and bottom habitats than in the surface.