Effects of human-induced water level fluctuations on copepod assemblages of the littoral zone of Lake Maggiore

Abstract Human-induced water level fluctuations (WLFs) are among the major pressures threatening lake ecosystems. Their effect on meiobenthic species of littoral zone has been poorly investigated. In this study, we aimed at assessing effects human-induced WLFs composition and functionality benthic copepod assemblages Lake Maggiore, Italy Switzerland. From 1942 to present, Maggiore regulated through Miorina Dam. We monitored during different levels defined within period regulation by dam, using taxonomy- trait-based metrics. observed variation in overall abundance biomass copepods, as well number individuals belonging some trait classes such ovigerous females, opportunists, omnivores deposit feeders. None investigated class was completely lost. The results our study suggest that ecosystem services supplied likely altered WLFs. Our findings provide a first picture WLF impacts assemblages, which can be useful for future research expanding other functional traits.