1 research outputs found
Riparian ecotones and spatial variation of fish assemblages in Portuguese lowland streams
The first results of a long-term study on the role of riparian ecotones on the population and community
dynamics of Iberian stream fish are presented and discussed . Riparian and macrophyte cover, bank
slope and depth were among the most important variables affecting fish distribution . In general small
fish favoured shallow areas with high macrophyte cover, whereas large fish dominated in deep areas with
a high riparian cover . Slight spatial changes in terrestrial prey use were found suggesting a minor role
for this resource during autumn . Finally, no significant spatial differences were found for linear growth,
although some differences were obtained for the condition facto