Zooplankton structure and dynamics in two estuaries from the Atlantic coast in relation to multi-stressors exposure

摘要: Abstract The aim of this research was to investigate the response pelagic zooplankton different levels abiotic multi-stressors in North Atlantic coast, taking advantage comparison communities two adjacent estuaries with historical pollution (estuaries Minho and Lima Rivers). community structure, composition temporal variation were comparatively investigated for 15 months, using net meshes. Several factors measured situ water samples simultaneously collected determination nutrients chlorophyll a . overall results revealed diverse represented by species that have been found subtropical temperate zones. Although highest diversity observed estuary, supported higher contributions marine taxa , total biomass be significantly estuary. salinity gradient differences between estuaries, associated significant levels, main forcing affecting micro mesozooplankton. Considering importance impacts resulting from on basis aquatic food webs, present investigation case-study, based contrasting one strongly influenced freshwater discharges (Minho estuary) other (Lima estuary), contributing better understanding effects communities, providing useful information studies related climate change impacts, biogeography, conservation data improvement fisheries management models.