Invertebrates of freshwater temporary ponds in mediterranean climates

Dani Boix, Jamie Kneitel, Belinda J. Robson, Claire Duchet, Luís Zúñiga, Jennifer Day, Stéphanie Gascón, Jordi Sala, Xavier D. Quintana, Leon Blaustein

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Mediterranean temporary ponds are present in five biogeographical regions, which are characterized by hot dry summers and cool mild winters. These ponds host high levels of biodiversity and endemism. More than 200 families and 630 genera of invertebrates have been reported, including iconic large branchiopods. Mediterranean climates show strong temporal variability, reflected in large intra- and inter-annual changes in pond hydroperiod that drive patterns in invertebrate communities. Consequently, community dynamics are more temporally variable than in cold-temperate temporary ponds. Globally, temporary pond conservation has been neglected and many ponds have already been lost despite the presence of legal protections and high ecological importance. Future biodiversity protection requires mosaics of ponds with diverse hydroperiods, preserving natural hydroregimes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInvertebrates in Freshwater Wetlands
Subtitle of host publicationAn International Perspective on Their Ecology
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages141-189
Number of pages49
ISBN (Electronic)9783319249780
ISBN (Print)9783319249766
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2016

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2016 Springer International Publishing Switzerland.

Keywords

  • Conservation
  • KeywordsInvertebrates
  • Life-histories
  • Mediterranean regions
  • Predation
  • Seasonal succession
  • Temporary ponds

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • General Environmental Science
  • General Engineering

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