Quality and quantity of leaf litter: Both are important for feeding preferences and growth of an aquatic shredder.

ABSTRACT: The study of leaf litter as a resource for shredders has emerged as a key topic in trophic links in ecology. However, thus far, most studies have emphasized the leaf quality as one of the main determinants of shredder behaviour and growth without simultaneously considering the leaf quantity availability. Nevertheless, the combined effects of leaf quantity and quality on shredder behaviour and growth is particularly crucial to further understand how ecosystem functioning may respond to the increasing flow intermittency due to climate change. In this study, we explore how changes in the leaf litter quality and quantity influence the feeding preferences and growth of an invertebrate shredder (Potamophylax latipennis). To do so, we used black poplar leaves conditioned in two streams with diffe

SUBMITTER: Arias-Real R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6291097 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature