Springs and Headwater Streams in Serbia: The Hidden Diversity and Ecology of Aquatic Invertebrates

Abstract

As places where groundwater comes to the surface of the earth, springs are of relatively uniform abiotic properties. Springs are habitats of numerous organisms dominated by macrozoobenthos. Different geological structures, different altitudes, terrain aspect, capacities and plant communities surrounding them initiate a wide range of conditions for developing benthic communities. Such a collage of uniformity, but also diversity, make springs special and specific, often the habitat of endemic and relict species. Research on aquatic invertebrates, an essential segment of springs and biocenoses of headwater streams, is critical, both from the point of view of better knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and preserving the diversity of spring communities. Upper reaches of streams are increasingly exposed to the effects of anthropogenic influence. In addition to the frequent uncontrolled capture, these fragile ecosystems have become endangered by the construction of small hydropower plants in recent years. With the construction of small hydropower plants, hilly mountain streams, as well as their banks, are being turned into landfills of dirt and gravel, with a small amount of water preventing the survival of plants and animals that inhabit these streams and inland ecosystems surrounding them.