Abstract
We studied some ecological aspects of two taxa of Nemouroidean stonefl ies (Tyrrhenoleuctra sp. and Brachyptera vera cordubensis) from a seasonal stream in Southern Europe. Tyrrhenoleuctra sp. shows a univoltine life cycle with a nymphal dormancy during the drought, and a long fl ight period. The eggs of this species are fully developed when laid, and hatch rapidly after laying, indicating a certain degree of ovoviviparism. The fi rst instar nymph is described for the fi rst time. In contrast, B. vera cordubensis shows a fast seasonal univoltine life cycle with an egg dormancy. The feeding behaviour study reveals that Tyrrhenoleuctra sp. can be catalogued mainly as a gatherer-collector while B. vera cordubensis can be classifi ed mainly as a scraper, although neither of them belong solely to a single functional group. No signifi cant changes are detected in the diet in relation to nymphal size, although larger individuals of B. vera cordubensis ingest more CPOM than small ones. Both taxa had similar biomass, but B. vera cordubensis had a higher secondary production and annual P/B rate.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.