How Does Velocity and Wood Decay Class Influence Stream Macroinvertebrate Diversity?

Abstract

Near-bed current velocity influences the distribution of macroinvertebrates on benthic substrates (Wellnitz et al. 2001), but this relationship on wood has not been studied. Like mineral substrates, submerged wood offers hard surfaces for macroinvertebrate colonization. However, wood decays much more readily, potentially altering habitation suitability (Hax and Golladay 1993). This study looked at the influence of current velocity and wood on the streambed distribution of macroinvertebrates.