Diversity and structure of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (Insecta) assemblages from riffles in mountain streams of Central Brazil

Abstract

The diversity and structure of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) assemblages in streams of Central Brazil (Serra dos Pireneus, Pirenópolis, State of Goiás) was investigated. Abundance data of EPT were obtained in Central-West Brazilian streams in order to evaluate the effect of spatial variability, including the effect of size of the stream and anthropic action, and seasonality (dry and rainy seasons) on faunal diversity and structure. The immatures were collected with circular sieves (0. 5 mm mesh) during one hour at five collection stations over 14 months. From a spatial point of view, the data showed that anthropic action determined the patterns of diversity whereas the size of streams (1st and 3rd-4th orders) determined the faunistic composition. In addition, environmental seasonality was an important factor for structuring the EPT fauna.