Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems are influenced by water quality and the surrounding environment, and changes to such ecosystems exert an effect on species. The aim of the present study was to relate the composition/abundance of species of aquatic ferns to both abiotic factors of water quality (total phosphorus and chlorophyll a) and the characteristics of the surrounding environment (rural, urban and vegetation). We analyzed 53 aquatic ecosystems in the state of Paraiba with lentic characteristics, considering total phosphorus and chlorophyll a as well as the classification of land use and occupation in the surrounding areas. We recorded nine species of aquatic ferns, which demonstrated a preference for environments with good water quality (low concentration of chlorophyll a) as well as sensitivity to rural and urban activities. The individual analysis of the species revealed that abiotic factors exerted an influence on the occurrence and abundance of the species. Cyclosorus interruptus (Willd.) H. Ito proved to be resistant to impacted environments, whereas Marsilea sp. and Ceratopteris thalictroides (L.) Brongn proved to be bioindicators of water quality. Our study revealed species considered bioindicators of good water quality and identified changes in the composition/abundance of the species in relation to different land uses.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
