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The occurrence and significance of Cladocera (Crustacea) in some streams of Central Indiana, U.S.A.

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Abstract

Although Cladocera are collected often in large rivers, their importance in streams has been under-estimated. This paper summarizes the results of a preliminary study of the benthic Cladocera in the streams of three watersheds in South Central Indiana. Seventeen sites were sampled with respect to species of benthic Cladocera present, their relative abundance, population size, and population dynamics.

Cladocera were present in all streams and sites in the three watersheds. Nineteen species were collected: 13 species from the family Chydoridae, 3 Daphniidae, 2 Macrothricidae, and 1 Bosminidae. Just four species — Alona circumfimbriata, Chydorus brevilabris, Pleuroxus denticulatus, and Macrothrix laticornis — made up 68–96% of the numbers at all sites.

Density of Cladocera ranged from 3–5200 m−2 and they reproduced and maintained populations in the streams sampled. Numbers were generally high in October and early November and decreased to near zero in late December and January. The most important factor appearing to affect population sizes was discharge. Numbers at almost all sites decreased significantly after a rainfall increased discharge.

A Principal Components and clustering analysis grouped sites with similar physical parameters in a continuum of low to high order. Sites with low numbers of Cladocera were generally shallow, narrow, and had a loose unconsolidated substrate. Sites with high population numbers were generally deep, wide, and had a stable substrate that accumulated detritus.

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  1. Peter B. Vila

    Present address: Institute of Ecology, University of Georgia, 30602, Athens, GA, USA

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  1. Dept. of Biology, Indiana University, Jordan Hall 138, 47405, Bloomington, IN, USA

    Peter B. Vila

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Vila, P.B. The occurrence and significance of Cladocera (Crustacea) in some streams of Central Indiana, U.S.A.. Hydrobiologia 171, 201–214 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00008143

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00008143

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