Environmental factors explaining the distribution and diversity of vascular aquatic macrophytes in a highly heterogeneous Mediterranean region

摘要: Abstract The study of the relationships between vascular aquatic macrophyte occurrence, species richness and local environment are central for suitable ecosystem quality assessments, freshwater bodies management assistance restoration. Here we quantify importance factors, both water column sediment, to provide tools lentic systems conservation in a Mediterranean region. We surveyed 90 along 2500 m altitudinal gradient Catalonia (NE Spain). Despite its relatively small scale, area exhibits large-scale environmental gradients mainly related diverse geology climate. In consequence, response macrophytes broad range conditions can be studied without interference biogeographical clines. identified all analyzed 35 variables at each site. Local factors accounted only 19% variance distribution. Even though explained more than sediment partitioning analysis (pCCA), mixed model integrating compartments performed better. most important driving distribution were conductivity, DOC, K, pH, Na, organic matter, Na nitrate. CCA clearly segregated coastal lagoons, temporary pools alpine lakes over two main gradients: ionic content body productivity. Species was low (4.2 per on average) GAM showed weak correlations with variables. best factor explaining geomorphological typology, but significantly different from other types had highest richness. Thus, unique displayed high biodiversity, strengthening need their preservation.