Effects of urbanization-induced local alterations on the diversity and assemblage structure of macroinvertebrates in low-order streams

Abstract Urbanization is one of the most serious threats to stream ecosystems worldwide. It crucial understand its effects on organisms as a prerequisite for mitigation urban degradation. Our aim was investigate general urbanization in moderately urbanized landscape and assess relationship between local environmental variables biotic attributes macroinvertebrate assemblages. Multiple sites at low-order streams flowing from natural forested areas landscapes were surveyed. We found that habitat properties presented degraded conditions sites. had negative effect richness Shannon diversity assemblages, altered assemblage composition. Biotic parameters showed negative, neutral or positive relationships with physical parameters. Concrete cover important variables, which explained decreasing macroinvertebrates. In conditions, microhabitat-level significantly impacted community variation, while microhabitat site-level substantial impact together. Individual considerable variability under well their response effects. Subsequently, might also need type actions required.