Habitat Heterogeneity and Channelization of Small Rivers and Streams: Fish Community Responses to Ecological Gradients.

ABSTRACT: Physical habitat gradients in small rivers and streams profoundly influence aquatic community structure. These ecosystems are critical for biodiversity conservation, serving as refugia and nurseries for numerous species. Effective freshwater conservation necessitates tailored strategies addressing specific anthropogenic pressures and each habitat type's unique geomorphological and hydrological characteristics. This study examined the response of fish communities to habitat heterogeneity and channelization in small rivers and streams within the Drawa River catchment, Pomerania, northwestern Poland. The interaction of morphohydrochemical characteristics created distinct spatial patterns within the catchment. Critical physical habitat characteristics significantly influencing fish community s

SUBMITTER: Shi X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12413487 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature