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Effects of land use on annelid assemblages in Pampean wetlands.

Laura Armendariz , Bianca Cortese, Alberto Rodrigues Capítulo

Abstract

Context: Land use significantly impacts wetlands, altering various biotic components and threatening biodiversity. Aims: This study assessed the ecological status of Pampas wetlands under different land uses by examining environmental characteristics and annelid assemblages. Methods: Four water systems in the Argentine Pampas were surveyed, including riverine wetlands and upstream and downstream sections affected by urbanization, intensive agriculture, or extensive livestock farming. Key results: Multivariate analysis revealed correlations among environmental factors and sites, while PERMANOVA analysis showed density variations between streams, sections, and land uses, though species richness and diversity remained consistent within each stream. A total of 42 annelid species and morphotypes were identified and linked with various environmental factors. Conclusions: Enchytraeidae were correlated with nitrate and phosphorus levels, while Limnodrilus species and Tubifex tubifex were associated with nitrites, ammonium, vegetation coverage, and fine sediments. Species such as Pristina spp., Aulophorus costatus, Dero spp., and Aulodrilus pigueti preferred sandy sediments enriched with organic matter and higher current velocities, indicating their potential as indicators of anthropogenic impact. Implications: These findings highlight the importance of annelid assemblages in wetland monitoring and underscore the need for integrated watershed management and sustainable planning to protect wetlands.

MF24142  Accepted 11 September 2024

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