Habitat quality assessment of Alpine Streams using ARISE: a classification tool for Alpine RIver and Stream Ecosystems in Khunjerab National Park Gilgit, Pakistan

Abstract

This study is based on detailed multidisciplinary field investigations with the use of the Alpine River and Stream Ecosystems (ARISE) Classification to assess spatial and temporal patterns of benthic macroinvertebrate communities in relation to altitudinal and channel stability gradients. We expected the field validation through the use of an innovative ARISE classification approach of alpine aquatic ecosystems by collecting physicochemical variables and benthic macroinvertebrate community data from various stream locations of Khunjerab National Park (Pakistan). The significant differences in physicochemical habitat structure and altitudinal changes of benthic macroinvertebrate communities (i.e., richness, abundance, and diversity) were observed among the ARISE classification categories. For instance, the early spring categories had high Shannon-Wiener index (1.377) than summer (1.267), while summer season categories had high turbidity (>5NTU). Early spring mercury nival (0.00083 mg/L) and aluminum nivo-kernal (0.25 mg/L) were also found above permissible levels according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The multivariate statistical techniques showed a strong correlation among physicochemical and biological parameters of stream classification categories suggesting the increased applicability of the use of the ARISE classification approach. This study is expected to contribute to the advancement in the method of the stream monitoring program and improve conservation and management of the alpine benthic macroinvertebrate diversity further in Pakistan, the Asian Himalayas, and beyond. HIGHLIGHTS The ARISE categories of alpine streams were evaluated using physicochemical and biological indicators in Khunjerab National Park, Pakistan. The distinctive ARISE classification reflects community composition and structure (density, diversity, evenness, and richness) and additionally biotic and diversity indices. Baseline information is presented to understand the current features for the conservation and management of alpine lotic ecosystems.