Local environmental factors are the main drivers of phytoplankton biovolume in subtropical streams of Brazil.

The ecological attributes of phytoplankton in freshwater environments are strongly influenced by limnological factors and temporal variability. In this study, we investigated the importance of local environmental and regional (spatial and landscape) predictors in structuring stream phytoplankton from the perspective of metacommunity theory. We seasonally sampled phytoplankton and abiotic variables from nine streams in three subtropical basins. Variation partitioning was used to investigate the influence of environmental, landscape, and spatial predictors on phytoplankton biovolume. Independent of the hydrological period (dry and rainy), the phytoplankton communities were predominantly structured by local environmental factors. In addition, the different land uses considered (landscape) showed weak significance during the dry season, with emphasis on the rural category. Biovolume values remained low, and diatoms and green algae were the most representative groups. Our findings are consistent with recognized ecological patterns for potamoplankton and emphasize local environmental filters as a fundamental regulator of phytoplankton biodiversity in lotic environments.

Grupos Funcionales Alimentarios de Macroinvertebrados Acuáticos de Caño Baranda en la Reserva Natural El Diamante de las Aguas (Guaviare, Colombia) / Functional Feeding Groups of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates of Caño Baranda in the Diamante de las Aguas Natural Reserve (Guaviare, Colombia)

Introducción: Los macroinvertebrados son un componente biológico importante de los ecosistemas acuáticos al estar vinculados de forma activa en el flujo de materia y energía. Objetivo: Identificar los Grupos Funcionales Alimentarios (GFA) de macroinvertebrados bentónicos presentes en Caño Baranda. Materiales y métodos: Se midieron características físicas y químicas en 5 estaciones a lo largo de Caño Baranda en temporada de lluvia, así mismo se recolectaron macroinvertebrados acuáticos utilizando red Surber, red Tienneman, red de Patada y recolecta manual. Se obtuvieron muestras en cada estación para estimar la densidad de macroinvertebrados y se asignaron GFA por taxón. Resultados: Se recolectaron 251 organismos pertenecientes a 32 familias, distribuídas en 9 órdenes. Las familias más abundantes fueron Leptophlebiidae con 35% y Glossosomatidae con 12%. Se recolectaron organismos de cinco GFA donde los grupos dominantes fueron recolectores (45%) seguido por los depredadores (23%) presentando correlaciones positivas con el pH. Por su parte el grupo menos colectado fueron los trituradores (1%) donde su presencia se relacionó con el aumento de oxígeno disuelto. Conclusiones: La presencia de colectores y depredadores se relacionó con pH y temperaturas bajas; para los fragmentadores se relacionó con menores porcentajes de oxígeno disuelto; para los raspadores se relacionó con pH bajos y mayores caudales y para los trituradores se relacionó con una elevada concentración de oxígeno en el agua.

Introduction: Macroinvertebrates are an important biological component of aquatic ecosystems as they are actively linked in the flow of matter and energy. Objective: To identify the Functional Feeding Groups (FFG) of benthic macroinvertebrates present in Caño Baranda. Materials and method: Physical and chemical characteristics were measured in 5 sampling points along Caño Baranda during the rainy season, likewise aquatic macroinvertebrates were collected using Surber net, Tienneman net, Kick net and hand collection. Samples were obtained at each sampling point to estimate the density of macroinvertebrates and FFG per taxa. Results: 251 organisms belonging to 32 families were collected, sorted into 9 orders. The most abundant families were Leptophlebiidae (35%) and Glossosomatidae (12%). Collected organisms were associated to five FFG, the dominant being collectors (45%) followed by predators (23%) which presented positive correlations with pH. On the other hand, the least collected group was shredders (1%) whose presence was related to the increase in dissolved oxygen.

Effect of Seasonality on the Assembly of Macrobenthos in a High Andean River / Efecto de la estacionalidad sobre el ensamble del macrobentos en un río altoandino

RESUMEN El estudio del funcionamiento de los ecosistemas altoandinos es de gran importancia pues cualquier modificación influirá en toda la cuenca; sin embargo, el conocimiento de estos ambientes aún es limitado. Por ello, se buscó determinar el efecto de la estacionalidad sobre el ensamble del macrobentos de un río altoandino y determinar las variables limnológicas, geomorfológicas e hidrológico-hidráulicas que más lo influencian. En el río El Salto, ubicado por encima de los 4500 msnm, en ambientes altoandinos al sur del Perú, se colectó macrobentos en el año 2020 en 11 unidades hidromorfológicas, registrándose variables limnológicas (oxígeno disuelto, porcentaje de saturación, conductividad, TSD, temperatura, pH, turbidez y SS), geomorfológicas (granulometría) e hidrológico-hidráulicas (caudal, velocidad, profundidad, ancho de cauce) en temporadas seca y húmeda. El análisis de componentes principales (ACP) de las variables fisicoquímicas evidenció que el caudal, la conductividad, el pH y los sólidos totales disueltos explicaron la mayor variabilidad de los datos (70 %). En cuanto a la granulometría, se encontró la predominancia de canto rodado y limo. El número de especies y la densidad fueron mayores en temporada seca que en la húmeda. Sin embargo, la diversidad, riqueza y equidad fueron mayores en temporada húmeda. El análisis de ordenación (nMDS, stress=0,09) mostró estructura diferente del ensamble macrobentónico entre ambas temporadas. Se concluye que la estacionalidad, dada por diversos factores, principalmente el caudal y la velocidad de flujo determinan variaciones en el ensamble del macrobentos, confirmando los cambios drásticos a los que están sometidos estos ecosistemas altoandinos con climas extremos.

ABSTRACT The study of the functioning of the high Andean ecosystems is of great importance since any change will influence the entire basin. However, knowledge of these environments is still limited. Therefore, we sought to determine the effect of seasonality on the macrobenthos assemblage of a high Andean River and to determine the limnological, geomorphological, and hydrological-hydraulic variables that most influence it. In the El Salto River, located 4,500 meters above sea level, in high Andean environments in southern Peru, macrobenthos was collected in 2020 in 11 hydro morphological units, recording limnological variables (dissolved oxygen, saturation percentage, conductivity, TSD, temperature, pH, turbidity and SS), geomorphological (granulometry) and hydrological-hydraulic (flow, velocity, depth, channel width) in dry and wet seasons. The principal component analysis (PCA) of the physicochemical variables showed that the flow rate, conductivity, pH, and total dissolved solids explained the greatest variability of the data (70 %). The predominance of boulders and silt was found. The number of species and density were higher in the dry season than in the wet season. However, the diversity, richness, and equity were higher in the wet season. The ordination analysis (nMDS, stress=0.09) showed a different structure of the macrobenthic assemblage between both seasons. It is concluded that seasonality, given by various factors, mainly flow rate and flow velocity, determine variations in the macrobenthos assemblage, confirming the drastic changes to which these high Andean ecosystems with extreme climates are subjected.

Chlorophyll-a prediction in tropical reservoirs as a function of hydroclimatic variability and water quality.

The study goal was to determine spatiotemporal variations in chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration using models that combine hydroclimatic and nutrient variables in 150 tropical reservoirs in Brazil. The investigation of seasonal variability indicated that Chl-a varied in response to changes in total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), volume (V), and daily precipitation (P). Therefore, an empirical model for Chl-a prediction based on the product of TN, TP, and normalized functions of V and P was proposed, but their individual exponents as well as a general multiplicative factor were adjusted by linear regression for each reservoir. The fitted relationships were capable of representing algal temporal dynamics and blooms, with an average coefficient of determination of R2 = 0.70. The results revealed that nutrients yielded better predictability of Chl-a than hydroclimatic variables. Chl-a blooms presented seasonal and interannual variability, being more frequent in periods of high precipitation and low volume. The equations demonstrate different Chl-a responses to the parameters. In general, Chl-a was positively related to TN and/or TP. However, in some cases (22%), high nutrient concentrations reduced Chl-a, which was attributed to limited phytoplankton growth driven by light deficiency due to increased turbidity. In 49% of the models, precipitation intensified Chl-a levels, which was related to increases in the nutrient concentration from external sources in rural watersheds. Contrastingly, 51% of the reservoirs faced a decrease in Chl-a with precipitation, which can be explained by the opposite effect of dilution of nutrient concentration at the reservoir inlet in urban watersheds. In terms of volume, in 67% of the reservoirs, water level reduction promoted an increase in Chl-a as a response to higher nutrient concentration. In the other cases, Chl-a decreased with lower water levels due to wind-induced destratification of the water column, which potentially decreased the internal nutrient release from bottom sediment. Finally, applying the model to the two largest studied reservoirs showed greater sensitivity of Chl-a to changes in water use classes regarding variations in TN, followed by TP, V, and P.

Surface hydrochemical dynamic in an artificial lake with anthropic impact: La Purísima reservoir, Central Mexico.

In the present study, the hydrochemical dynamic and the water quality of La Purísima reservoir, Central Mexico, have been determined. The reservoir presents total dissolved solids (TDSs) between 146 and 328 mg L-1 and water quality neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7.0 to 8.7) during the dry season, whereas it becomes clearly alkaline (pH 8.1-9.9) in the rainy-warm season. Through its main tributaries, La Purísima reservoir has been receiving water affected by anthropic activities, such as mining, urbanization, and agriculture. La Purísima reservoir indicates water quality suitable for irrigation and aquatic lives, but unsuitable for drinking purposes. A geochemical evolution from the riverine to the lacustrine zone is evidenced by the complexation of several free ions: the higher saturation indexes; the lower toxic metal concentrations; and the lower trophic status, which ameliorate the water quality in the lacustrine zone. Trace elements co-precipitate and are adsorbed onto bottom sediments. During summer, high evaporation rates and atmospheric precipitation are found to decline the water quality. Cluster analyses reflect the geo-setting and different pollution levels: urban impact from the north coast, and agricultural activities from the east coast. The sensitivity of the lake to geochemical behavior can be used to understand the complex dissolved geochemical dynamics in a lake and the potential effects from long-term anthropic impact variability. The information about water quality of La Purísima reservoir may be useful to preserve the ecosystem and its biodiversity.

Temperature differently affected methanogenic pathways and microbial communities in sub-Antarctic freshwater ecosystems.

Freshwater ecosystems are responsible for an important part of the methane (CH4) emissions which are likely to change with global warming. This study aims to evaluate temperature-induced (from 5 to 20 °C) changes on microbial community structure and methanogenic pathways in five sub-Antarctic lake sediments from Magallanes strait to Cape Horn, Chile. We combined in situ CH4 flux measurements, CH4 production rates (MPRs), gene abundance quantification and microbial community structure analysis (metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA gene). Under unamended conditions, a temperature increase of 5 °C doubled MPR while microbial community structure was not affected. Stimulation of methanogenesis by methanogenic precursors as acetate and H2/CO2, resulted in an increase of MPRs up to 127-fold and 19-fold, respectively, as well as an enrichment of mcrA-carriers strikingly stronger under acetate amendment. At low temperatures, H2/CO2-derived MPRs were considerably lower (down to 160-fold lower) than the acetate-derived MPRs, but the contribution of hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis increased with temperature. Temperature dependence of MPRs was significantly higher in incubations spiked with H2/CO2 (c. 1.9 eV) compared to incubations spiked with acetate or unamended (c. 0.8 eV). Temperature was not found to shape the total microbial community structure, that rather exhibited a site-specific variability among the studied lakes. However, the methanogenic archaeal community structure was driven by amended methanogenic precursors with a dominance of Methanobacterium in H2/CO2-based incubations and Methanosarcina in acetate-based incubations. We also suggested the importance of acetogenic H2-production outcompeting hydrogenotrohic methanogenesis especially at low temperatures, further supported by homoacetogen proportion in the microcosm communities. The combination of in situ-, and laboratory-based measurements and molecular approaches indicates that the hydrogenotrophic pathway may become more important with increasing temperatures than the acetoclastic pathway. In a continuously warming environment driven by climate change, such issues are crucial and may receive more attention.

Population biology and sexual dimorphism in the freshwater prawn Atya scabra (Decapoda: Atyidae) in the Contas River, Bahia, Brazil / Biología poblacional y dimorfismo sexual en la gamba de agua dulce Atya scabra (Decapoda: Atyidae) en el río Contas, Bahía, Brasil

Introduction: Crustaceans have economic and ecological importance and the role of caridean crustaceans in lentic environments is crucial to maintain the trophic structure. The species Atya scabra is occasionally associated with fisheries, especially in Northeast and Northern Brazil. Objective: To determine the population structure, reproductive period, patterns of growth and distribution of size classes among sexes in a population of the prawn A. scabra in the De Contas River, Bahia, Brazil. Methods: Individuals were sampled in a period of one year by passing sieves through marginal vegetation and using dragnets. In the laboratory, we recorded the sex of the individuals and measured them using a pachymeter with 0.001 mm precision. The dimensions measured were CL (carapace length), TL (total length) and CW (carapace width). In order to analyze data, linear models for the relationships CL × CW were constructed and the type of allometry for each sex was determined. Individuals were grouped into size classes of 5 mm intervals. A chi-square test (χ2) was used to test deviation from the 1:1 sex ratio. The proportion of ovigerous females was registered for each month to determine the breeding period. Results: A total of 517 individuals were collected, 328 were males and 186 females of which 169 were ovigerous. Males showed a polymodal distribution in size classes and were significantly larger than females, which presented a unimodal distribution in size classes. The observed growth patterns demonstrated that both sexes present negative allometry. However, sexual dimorphism was detected when comparing the growth parameters. Ovigerous females were sampled the entire year and size-frequency data demonstrated that recruitment also occurs throughout the year, which allowed us to classify their reproduction as continuous. Conclusions: Our data is essential to draw sustainable fishery management strategies. We suggest a minimum capture size of 70 mm and capture restrictions from May to August.

Introducción: Los crustáceos tienen importancia económica y ecológica y el papel de los crustáceos carideanos en los entornos lénticos es crucial para mantener la estructura trófica. La especie Atya scabra se asocia ocasionalmente con la pesca, especialmente en el noreste y norte de Brasil. Objetivo: Determinar la estructura de la población, período reproductivo, patrones de crecimiento y la distribución de las clases de tamaño entre los sexos en una población de gambas A. scabra en el río de Contas, Bahía, Brasil. Métodos: Se tomaron muestras de los individuos en un período de un año pasando tamices en la vegetación marginal y usando redes de arrastre (dragnets). En el laboratorio, registramos el sexo de los individuos y los medimos utilizando un paquímetro con precisión de 0.001 mm. Las dimensiones medidas fueron CL (longitud del caparazón), TL (longitud total) y CW (ancho del caparazón). Para analizar los datos, se construyeron modelos lineales para las relaciones CL × CW y se determinó el tipo de alometría para cada sexo. Los individuos se agruparon en clases de tamaño de intervalos de 5 mm. La prueba de chi-cuadrado (χ2) se utilizó para determinar desviaciones en la proporción de sexos 1:1. La proporción de hembras ovígeras se registró en cada mes para determinar el período de reproducción. Resultados: Se recolectaron un total de 517 individuos, 328 machos y 186 hembras, de las cuales 169 eran ovígeras. Los machos mostraron una distribución polimodal en las clases de tamaño y fueron significativamente más grandes que las hembras, las cuales presentaron una distribución unimodal en las clases de tamaño. Los patrones de crecimiento observados demostraron que ambos sexos presentan alometría negativa. Sin embargo, se detectó dimorfismo sexual al comparar los parámetros de crecimiento. Se tomaron muestras de hembras ovígeras durante todo el año y los datos de frecuencia de tamaño demostraron que el reclutamiento también se produce durante todo el año, lo que nos permitió clasificar la reproducción como continua. Conclusiones: Nuestros datos son esenciales para elaborar estrategias sostenibles de gestión pesquera. Sugerimos un tamaño mínimo de captura de 70 mm y restricciones de captura desde mayo hasta agosto.

An assessment of the factors determining rotifer assemblage in river-lake systems: the effects of seasonality and habitat

Zooplankton exhibit several trends of variation in space and time, and these trends can be more evident in natural environments without anthropic perturbations. Examples of anthropic factors are climate change, eutrophication and construction of reservoirs. This study evaluated the influence of three factors - seasonality, type of environment and the presence of aquatic macrophytes - on various ecological attributes of rotifers in a river-lake system located in the Paraná River floodplain. Monthly samplings were conducted during 1993 and 1994. The mean species richness per sample was 60 species. The seasonality and the type of environment influenced the ecological attributes of rotifer assemblages, while the presence or absence of aquatic macrophytes did not. Species richness was highest in the lake system and during the months when water levels were low. Multivariate analysis indicates a small group of species associated with the low water-level phase. In contrast, many species were associated with high water levels or increasing water levels. The seasonal variation of hydrological cycle and the type of environment are the most important factors for rotifer structure in natural conditions.(AU)

Lago Guaíba: uma análise histórico-cultural da poluição hídrica em Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil / Lake Guaíba: a historical and cultural analysis of water pollution in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

RESUMO A qualidade de vida é intrinsecamente ligada à disponibilidade de água, e a poluição desse recurso afeta diretamente as populações. O Lago Guaíba possui importância histórica, econômica e cultural para Porto Alegre (RS) e região metropolitana. Este trabalho discute o contexto histórico-cultural da poluição do Lago Guaíba. Com grande região hidrográfica, o lago sofre diversos impactos ambientais e, ao mesmo tempo, possui múltiplos usos para suas águas. Apesar da grande importância do Lago Guaíba para a região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, há um histórico descaso com sua qualidade. O lago apresenta-se poluído, com percepção pública dessa realidade e limitação de usos diretos de suas águas.

ABSTRACT The quality of life is intrinsically linked to water availability; however, pollution on this resource directly affects people. Lake Guaíba has a historical, economic and cultural importance to Porto Alegre (RS, Brazil) and its metropolitan region. This report discusses the historical and cultural context of Lake Guaíba's pollution. With a large watershed, Lake Guaíba suffers many environmental impacts and, at the same time, has multiple uses for its waters. Despite the great importance of Lake Guaíba to Porto Alegre metropolitan region, there is a historical disregard with its quality. The lake is polluted and there is a public perception of this reality with direct limitation of its water's use.

An assessment of the factors determining rotifer assemblage in river-lake systems: the effects of seasonality and habitat

Zooplankton exhibit several trends of variation in space and time, and these trends can be more evident in natural environments without anthropic perturbations. Examples of anthropic factors are climate change, eutrophication and construction of reservoirs. This study evaluated the influence of three factors - seasonality, type of environment and the presence of aquatic macrophytes - on various ecological attributes of rotifers in a river-lake system located in the Paraná River floodplain. Monthly samplings were conducted during 1993 and 1994. The mean species richness per sample was 60 species. The seasonality and the type of environment influenced the ecological attributes of rotifer assemblages, while the presence or absence of aquatic macrophytes did not. Species richness was highest in the lake system and during the months when water levels were low. Multivariate analysis indicates a small group of species associated with the low water-level phase. In contrast, many species were associated with high water levels or increasing water levels. The seasonal variation of hydrological cycle and the type of environment are the most important factors for rotifer structure in natural conditions.

Colonization of benthic invertebrates on artificial and natural substrate in a Neotropical lotic environment in Southern Brazil

The objective of this research was to validate the colonization process on natural and artificial substrates by benthic invertebrates in a tropical stream in South Brazil. The samples were performed in July and August-2012, and 32 samplers were used, being 16 natural and 16 artificial substrates. In each sample, two replicas were taken for each substrate at the 2th, 4th, 7th, 14th, 21th28th, 35th and 42thdays of colonization. The organisms were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level. In both substrates 3,070 benthic invertebrates were detected, of which 1,753 individuals were collected on the natural substrate, and 1,317 on the artificial substrate. From the identified taxa 8.5% were not dominant (Anacroneuria, Orthocladiinae, Tupiara, Smicridea, Baetodes, Tupiperla, Macrogynoplax, Gripopteryx, Cylloepus, Macrelmis, Microcylloepus, Hetaerina, Argia, Coryphaeschna, Atopsyche, Pomacea, Corydalus, Leptohyphes and Eccoptura), and31.5% were dominant (Tanypodinae, Chironominae, and Paragripopteryx). The genus Simulium was very common, dominant and abundant, representing 65% of the collected individuals. No significant difference was found in the abundance and species composition between artificial and natural substrates. On the natural substrate, the higher colonization index was at the 35th day with 459 individuals, and the lowest was at the 14th day, with 87. On the artificial substrate the highest index was at the 42thday with 337 individuals, and the lowest was at the 4th day, with 85. Both natural and artificial substrates are efficient in characterizing the benthic community. In the evaluation of the ecological succession, it was not possible to observe a pattern that described the process, since the composition was nearly constant throughout the study period.

Response of aquatic macrophyte biomass to limnological changes under water level fluctuation in tropical reservoirs / Resposta da biomassa de macrófitas aquáticas às mudanças limnológicas consequentes da variação do nível da água em reservatórios tropicais

Abstract We evaluated the response of the biomass of aquatic macrophytes under limnological changes after water level fluctuation (WLF) of two tropical reservoirs (R1 and R2), located in northeastern Brazil. Initially we tested the hypothesis that post-WLF limnological conditions and biomass of macrophytes increase or decrease, depending on the variable or species. We monitored a 4 × 50 m permanent plot, in four expeditions per period (pre- or post-WLF), assessing species biomass and 10 limnological variables. We utilized 0.25 × 0.25 m quadrats for biomass. Once the effect of WLF in limnological variables and species biomass was confirmed, we utilized Canonical Correspondence Analysis to understand the relationship between limnological variables and species biomass. The abundant and/or dominant species in pre-WLF of R1 ( Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes and Salvinia auriculata) and R2 (Paspalidium geminatum and S. auriculata) reduced their biomass post-WLF and were correlated with temperature, total phosphorous and nitrate. The reduced biomass of P. stratiotes, E. crassipes and S. auriculata in post-WLF widened resource availability, allowing coexistence of species. Therefore, we suggest that the change of limnological conditions in post-WLF in artificial lakes acts only as a moderator factor of the interspecific interaction (especially coexistence), without direct relation between these conditions and species biomass.

Resumo Avaliamos a resposta da biomassa de macrófitas aquáticas às alterações ambientais após flutuação do nível de água (WLF) de dois reservatórios tropicais (R1 e R2), localizados no Nordeste do Brasil. Inicialmente, testamos a hipótese de que após uma WLF as condições limnológicas e a biomassa das macrófitas aumentam ou diminuem, dependendo da variável ou espécie. Por isso, monitoramos uma parcela permanente de 4 × 50 m, em quatro amostragens por período (pré ou pós-WLF), avaliando a biomassa de espécies e 10 variáveis ​​limnológicas. Utilizamos quadrados de 0,25 × 0,25 m na amostragem da biomassa. Uma vez que o efeito do WLF em variáveis limnológicas e biomassa das espécies foi confirmado, utilizamos a Análise de Correspondência Canônica para compreender a relação das variáveis ​​limnológicas com a biomassa de espécies. As espécies abundantes e/ou dominantes no pré-WLF de R1 (Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes e Salvinia auriculata ) e R2 (Paspalidium geminatum e S. auriculata ) reduziram sua biomassa pós-WLF, correlacionando-se diretamente com temperatura, fósforo total e nitrato. A redução da biomassa de P. stratiotes , E. crassipes e S. auriculata em pós-WLF ampliou a disponibilidade de recursos, permitindo a coexistência de espécies. Portanto, sugerimos que a mudança das condições limnológicas no pós-WLF em lagos artificiais atua apenas como um fator moderador da interação interespecífica (em especial a coexistência), sem relação direta entre essas condições e a biomassa das espécies.

Limnological Characteristics and Rotifer Community Composition of Northern Mexico Chihuahuan Desert Springs.

Desert springs are critical for wildlife and human subsistence, but poorly studied. The springs in the northern Chihuahuan Desert region of Mexico are no exception. While groundwater overexploitation and other anthropogenic activities have endangered these waters, little is known about their water quality or biodiversity. We monitored five springs on a monthly basis for one year, and two others sporadically, to determine their physicochemical characteristics and to study rotifer community composition as an assessment of biodiversity. Seasonal variation in temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), and conductivity was observed in the five springs. DO was occasionally below the criterion for aquatic life (<4mg/L) in some springs. Ca2+ (468-775.2 mg/L) was the dominant ion in all springs except Ojo de Santa María where Na+ (180-290 mg/L) dominated. Of 57 rotifer species identified, Lepadella patella (Müller, 1786), Lepadella triptera (Ehrenberg, 1830), and Philodina megalotrocha, Ehrenberg, 1832 were present in most springs. The rotifer community exhibited nestedness among the sites (supported by four null modes, p<0.05) and was correlated with fall season, DO, and nitrate concentration. This work provides information that will aid in management practices and provide important baseline data on water quality and regional diversity of a major component of the zooplankton.

Response of aquatic macrophyte biomass to limnological changes under water level fluctuation in tropical reservoirs / Resposta da biomassa de macrófitas aquáticas às mudanças limnológicas consequentes da variação do nível da água em reservatórios tropicais

We evaluated the response of the biomass of aquatic macrophytes under limnological changes after water level fluctuation (WLF) of two tropical reservoirs (R1 and R2), located in northeastern Brazil. Initially we tested the hypothesis that post-WLF limnological conditions and biomass of macrophytes increase or decrease, depending on the variable or species. We monitored a 4 × 50 m permanent plot, in four expeditions per period (pre- or post-WLF), assessing species biomass and 10 limnological variables. We utilized 0.25 × 0.25 m quadrats for biomass. Once the effect of WLF in limnological variables and species biomass was confirmed, we utilized Canonical Correspondence Analysis to understand the relationship between limnological variables and species biomass. The abundant and/or dominant species in pre-WLF of R1 ( Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes and Salvinia auriculata) and R2 (Paspalidium geminatum and S. auriculata) reduced their biomass post-WLF and were correlated with temperature, total phosphorous and nitrate. The reduced biomass of P. stratiotes, E. crassipes and S. auriculata in post-WLF widened resource availability, allowing coexistence of species. Therefore, we suggest that the change of limnological conditions in post-WLF in artificial lakes acts only as a moderator factor of the interspecific interaction (especially coexistence), without direct relation between these conditions and species biomass.(AU)

Avaliamos a resposta da biomassa de macrófitas aquáticas às alterações ambientais após flutuação do nível de água (WLF) de dois reservatórios tropicais (R1 e R2), localizados no Nordeste do Brasil. Inicialmente, testamos a hipótese de que após uma WLF as condições limnológicas e a biomassa das macrófitas aumentam ou diminuem, dependendo da variável ou espécie. Por isso, monitoramos uma parcela permanente de 4 × 50 m, em quatro amostragens por período (pré ou pós-WLF), avaliando a biomassa de espécies e 10 variáveis limnológicas. Utilizamos quadrados de 0,25 × 0,25 m na amostragem da biomassa. Uma vez que o efeito do WLF em variáveis limnológicas e biomassa das espécies foi confirmado, utilizamos a Análise de Correspondência Canônica para compreender a relação das variáveis limnológicas com a biomassa de espécies. As espécies abundantes e/ou dominantes no pré-WLF de R1 (Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes e Salvinia auriculata ) e R2 (Paspalidium geminatum e S. auriculata ) reduziram sua biomassa pós-WLF, correlacionando-se diretamente com temperatura, fósforo total e nitrato. A redução da biomassa de P. stratiotes , E. crassipes e S. auriculata em pós-WLF ampliou a disponibilidade de recursos, permitindo a coexistência de espécies. Portanto, sugerimos que a mudança das condições limnológicas no pós-WLF em lagos artificiais atua apenas como um fator moderador da interação interespecífica (em especial a coexistência), sem relação direta entre essas condições e a biomassa das espécies.(AU)

Avaliação da eficiência de um índice de estado trófico na determinação da qualidade da água de reservatórios para abastecimento público / Assessment of the efficiency of a trophic state index in determining the water quality of public water supply reservoirs

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo consiste na avaliação da eficácia do uso de um índice de estado trófico (IET) como ferramenta na análise da qualidade das águas de três reservatórios. O IET foi calculado baseado na transparência do reservatório e nas concentrações de clorofila-a e fósforo total (P total). Para identificar a correlação do uso do solo com a poluição aquática das represas, o IET calculado para cada represa foi comparado ao mapeamento temático de cobertura do solo com base em imagens do satélite Landsat TM 5 do ano de 2010. A análise dos componentes principais (ACP), focada na correlação dos dados, foi realizada utilizando o software PAST®, versão 2.16. Inicialmente, o comportamento dos parâmetros associados ao IET foi avaliado de forma isolada (P total, clorofila-a e transparência) sobre os reservatórios. Em seguida, foram aplicados à ACP os demais parâmetros físicos e químicos associados à qualidade da água dos reservatórios (sem o IET). Por fim, todos os parâmetros foram submetidos à ACP (IET e todos os outros parâmetros em conjunção). O IET utilizado nesta pesquisa demonstrou ser autossuficiente na predição da qualidade de água com a utilização de apenas três parâmetros (P total, clorofila-a e transparência). A análise das imagens de satélite, em conjunto com os dados provenientes do IET, foi suficiente para apontar a redução da qualidade das águas por fontes pontuais de poluição, mesmo em ambientes com maior cobertura vegetal preservada.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study consists in the evaluation of the trophic state index (IET) efficacy as a tool in the water quality analysis of three reservoirs. The IET was calculated based on water transparency in the reservoir and on the surface concentrations of chlorophyll-a and total phosphorus (total P). To identify the correlation of the soil use with the reservoir aquatic pollution, the IET calculated for each reservoir was compared to the thematic mapping of land cover based on Landsat TM 5 satellite images from 2010. The main components analysis (ACP), focused on data correlation, was made using the software PAST®, version 2.16. Initially, the behavior of the parameters associated with the IET was evaluated alone (total P, chlorophyll-a and transparency) on the reservoirs. Then, the other chemical and physical parameters associated with the reservoirs water quality (without the IET) were applied to the ACP. Finally, all the parameters underwent the ACP (IET and all the other parameters in conjunction). The IET used in this research seemed to be self-sufficient in the prediction of water quality using only three parameters (total P, chlorophyll-a and transparency). The satellite images analysis, in conjunction with the IET data, was sufficient to point out the water quality reduction by punctual sources of pollution even in environments with larger preserved vegetal coverage.

Evaluación toxicológica y de metales (Cu, Pb, Ni, Zn y Cd) en el sedimento del reservorio Paiva Castro en Mairiporã-SP, Brasil / Toxicological and metal evaluation (Cu, Pb, Ni, Zn and Cd) in the sediment of Paiva Castro reservoir, in Mairiporã-SP, Brasil

El hombre ha cambiado el ambiente para sostener la demanda global de recursos naturales como el agua. La gestión de los cuerpos hídricos tiene que ser constante, con el propósito preventivo y correctivo, dependiendo del estado de antropización de cada sistema. El objetivo de este artículo fue analizar la toxicidad del sedimento y los metales Mn, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cd y Cu, en el reservorio Paiva Castro, que abastece la Region Metropolitana de São Paulo. Se realizaron 2 muestreos (Mayo 2011, estación seca y Enero de 2012, estación húmeda) y se analizaron 5 puntos próximos a la captación de agua por la Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo. Se realizaron ensayos de toxicidad aguda y crónica en sedimento, a través de ensayos biológicos con el cladócero Daphnia similis y el insecto Chironomus xanthus. El tratamiento de datos se realizó con el test de Fisher (mortalidad). El nivel de asociación entre las variables en sedimento y en los test ecotoxicológicos fueron evaluados por test no-paramétricos, a través del coeficiente de correlación de Spearman's. Los resultados del presente trabajo señalaron bajas concentracones de metales en el sedimento del área de estudio y ausencia de toxicidad en los organismos ensayados. Se puede concluir que área estudiada del reservorio Paiva Castro se encuentra poco impactada por los metales, sin efectos directos sobre la calidad de vida los organismos bentónicos: D. similis y C. xanthus.

Man had changed the natural environment in an attempt trying to supply the global demand for resources. The management of the hydric bodies has to be constant, with preventive and corrective purpose, depending on the eutrophization state of each one. The objective of this article was to analyze the sediment toxicity and the metals Mn, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cd and Cu, in the Paiva Castro reservoir, that supply the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo. It was made 2 collections (May 2011, dry season and January 2012, wet season). It was analyzed 5 points next to the water captation station by the Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo. The sediment was analyzed as for acute and chronic toxicity through bioassays with the cladocerans Daphnia similis and the insect Chironomus xanthus. Data treatment was done with Fisher Exact Test (mortality). The association level between the variables in sediment and ecotoxicological tests was available in non-parametric tests, through the Spearman's correlation coefficient. Oriented on the results presented in this work, pointing low concentrations of heavy metals in the sediments presented in the collect local, and the absence of toxicity, we can say that at this reservoir, at least in the collect area, it's low impacted, not implicating in direct interferences in the quality of life of benthonic organisms.

Response of aquatic macrophyte biomass to limnological changes under water level fluctuation in tropical reservoirs

Abstract We evaluated the response of the biomass of aquatic macrophytes under limnological changes after water level fluctuation (WLF) of two tropical reservoirs (R1 and R2), located in northeastern Brazil. Initially we tested the hypothesis that post-WLF limnological conditions and biomass of macrophytes increase or decrease, depending on the variable or species. We monitored a 4 × 50 m permanent plot, in four expeditions per period (pre- or post-WLF), assessing species biomass and 10 limnological variables. We utilized 0.25 × 0.25 m quadrats for biomass. Once the effect of WLF in limnological variables and species biomass was confirmed, we utilized Canonical Correspondence Analysis to understand the relationship between limnological variables and species biomass. The abundant and/or dominant species in pre-WLF of R1 ( Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes and Salvinia auriculata) and R2 (Paspalidium geminatum and S. auriculata) reduced their biomass post-WLF and were correlated with temperature, total phosphorous and nitrate. The reduced biomass of P. stratiotes, E. crassipes and S. auriculata in post-WLF widened resource availability, allowing coexistence of species. Therefore, we suggest that the change of limnological conditions in post-WLF in artificial lakes acts only as a moderator factor of the interspecific interaction (especially coexistence), without direct relation between these conditions and species biomass.

Resumo Avaliamos a resposta da biomassa de macrófitas aquáticas às alterações ambientais após flutuação do nível de água (WLF) de dois reservatórios tropicais (R1 e R2), localizados no Nordeste do Brasil. Inicialmente, testamos a hipótese de que após uma WLF as condições limnológicas e a biomassa das macrófitas aumentam ou diminuem, dependendo da variável ou espécie. Por isso, monitoramos uma parcela permanente de 4 × 50 m, em quatro amostragens por período (pré ou pós-WLF), avaliando a biomassa de espécies e 10 variáveis limnológicas. Utilizamos quadrados de 0,25 × 0,25 m na amostragem da biomassa. Uma vez que o efeito do WLF em variáveis limnológicas e biomassa das espécies foi confirmado, utilizamos a Análise de Correspondência Canônica para compreender a relação das variáveis limnológicas com a biomassa de espécies. As espécies abundantes e/ou dominantes no pré-WLF de R1 (Pistia stratiotes, Eichhornia crassipes e Salvinia auriculata ) e R2 (Paspalidium geminatum e S. auriculata ) reduziram sua biomassa pós-WLF, correlacionando-se diretamente com temperatura, fósforo total e nitrato. A redução da biomassa de P. stratiotes , E. crassipes e S. auriculata em pós-WLF ampliou a disponibilidade de recursos, permitindo a coexistência de espécies. Portanto, sugerimos que a mudança das condições limnológicas no pós-WLF em lagos artificiais atua apenas como um fator moderador da interação interespecífica (em especial a coexistência), sem relação direta entre essas condições e a biomassa das espécies.

Sediment pollution in margins of the Lake Guaíba, Southern Brazil.

Sediments are formed by deposition of organic and inorganic particles on depth of water bodies, being an important role in aquatic ecosystems, including destination and potential source of essential nutrients and heavy metals, which may be toxic for living organisms. The Lake Guaíba supplies water for approximately two million people and it is located in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the sediment pollution in the margins of Lake Guaíba in the vicinity of Porto Alegre city. Surface sediment was sampled in 12 sites to assess the concentration of several elements (C, N, P, Fe, Al, Ca, Mg, Na, K, Mn, Ba, Zn, V, Pb, Cu, Cr, Ni, Cd, Mo, and Se) and the mineralogical composition. Sediment in margins of Lake Guaíba presented predominantly (> 95%) sandy fraction in all samples, but with significant differences between evaluated sites. Sediments in the margins of Lake Guaíba showed indications of punctual water pollution with Pb, Cu, Cr, Ni, TOC, TKN, and P, mainly derived from urban streams that flow into the lake. In order to solve these environmental liabilities, public actions should not focus only on Guaíba, but also in the streams that flow into the lake.

Water quality of a coastal lagoon (ES, Brazil): abiotic aspects, cytogenetic damage, and phytoplankton dynamics.

Assessment of water resources requires interdisciplinary studies that include multiple ecosystem aspects. This study evaluated the water quality of Juara Lagoon (ES, Brazil) based on physical and chemical variables, cytogenetic responses in Allium cepa and phytoplankton dynamics. Three sampling sites were defined and water samples were collected during two sampling periods. Analyses such as determination of photic zone, conductivity, and concentrations of nutrients and metals were conducted as well as cytotoxic, mutagenic, and genotoxic potentials using A. cepa test. The main attributes of phytoplankton community, such as total richness, total density, density by class, dominance, and diversity, were also evaluated. Results have revealed that Juara Lagoon has signs of artificial eutrophication at two sampling sites due to high levels of total phosphorus and ammonia nitrogen. Cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic potentials were detected as well as high concentrations of Fe and Mn. Furthermore, 165 phytoplankton taxa were recorded, with highest richness in Chlorophyceae and Cyanophyceae classes. In addition, Cyanophyceae presented as the highest density class. A. cepa test and phytoplankton community evaluation indicated that the ecological quality of Juara Lagoon is compromised.

Zooplâncton com ênfase em rotífera no balneário canhoto (igarapé sacado de Brasília) localizado na sub-bacia hidrográfica do rio Juruá, Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre / Zooplankton, with emphasis inrotifera in health-resort canhoto (creek sacado of Brasília) located in sub-basin river Juruá, Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre state, Brazil

Os igarapés são ecossistemas pequenose que são dependentes de seu entorno, onde há floresta e erosão, o que pode influenciar na distribuição, estrutura e variação temporal de Rotifera. Este trabalho foi realizado no Balneário do Canhoto que faz parte da microbacia hidrográfica do Rio Juruá, em Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre. Esta região é ainda escassa em estudos de zooplâncton e devido a essa deficiência, o presente estudo tem como objetivo principal estudar a variação temporal em termos de riqueza e abundância, do zooplâncton, com ênfase em Rotifera. As coletas foram realizadas mensalmente entre novembro de 2011 e outubro de 2012. O material foi coletado com rede de plâncton com abertura de 55 μm de malha. Os Rotifera apresentaram uma riqueza de 38 espécies. Os Cladocera também estiveram presentes com 10 espécies. Foram registradas 6 (seis) novas ocorrências para espécies e 2 (duas) novas ocorrências para gênero para o Estado do Acre.

The creeks are small ecosystems and that are dependent on their surroundings, where there is forest and erosion, that can influence the distribution, structure and temporal variation of rotifers. This work was performed inhealth-resort of the canhoto that is part of the sub-basin of the River Juruá in Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre State. This region is still scarce studies of zooplankton and due to this deficiency, the present study aimed to study temporal variation in richness and abundance, with emphasis in Rotifera. Samples were collected monthly between november 2011 and october 2012. The material was collected with plankton net with an opening of 55 μm in mesh. Rotifera were those with the highest species richness (38). The Cladocera were also presentwith 10 species. We recorded six (6) new records for species and two (2) new recorded for genera.