Replacement of rooted macrophytes by filamentous macroalgae: effects on small fishes and macroinvertebrates

摘要: In aquatic environments around the globe, rooted macrophytes have been replaced by filamentous macroalgae. The consequences of such shifts in vegetative habitat for fauna are poorly understood. Given differences morphology and life history characteristics macroalgae, we hypothesized that these types were not functionally redundant small-bodied fishes macroinvertebrates. We examined this hypothesis spring-fed Florida rivers characterized decreases native concomitant increases Although faunal densities generally greater macroalgae than macrophytes, community assemblage structure suggest two do function interchangeably. Accordingly, continued replacement with is expected to affect small fish macroinvertebrate community, as well higher trophic levels depend on it.