Abstract
The diversity of aquatic macrophytes can offer different local conditions required to support an increased number of microhabitats, therefore resulting in diverse biotic communities. This study assessed the influence of macrophyte diversity on the ecological attributes of the associated invertebrates (diversity, richness and abundance), as well as the diet composition of a small fish, Moenkhausia forestii, that inhabits the Upper Parana River floodplain in abundance, and present great contributions of invertebrates in its diet. The richness and diversity of invertebrates increased with increasing macrophyte diversity, while the abundance of invertebrates didn’t show a significant relationship. The diet of M. forestii differed among stands and the consumption of invertebrates increased with increasing macrophyte diversity, while the consumption of aquatic plants decreased. Moreover, the trophic niche breadth of M. forestii expanded, a probable result of the increase in the ecological opportunity promoted by higher macrophyte diversity. Our study emphasizes the importance of the diversity of these plants as they structure the environment and the associated communities, and changes in the attributes of these plants could be reflected on other trophic levels and even on a local scale.
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.