Factors Controlling Morphotaxa Distributions of Diptera Chironomidae in Freshwaters

Many hydrobiological studies have dealt with the autecology of species within family Chironomidae and discussed factors affecting distribution. The aim present research is to consider most important chironomid Habitat type (lentic, lotic, krenal, rhithral, etc.), water temperature, conductivity, trophic status are confirmed key controlling their assemblage structure. Here, we introduce term “morphotaxon” as taxonomic level, intermediate between genus species, more suitable describe ecological responses Chironomidae. uncertainty related identification at base proposal, assumption that belonging same morphotaxon similar needs. In this study, hypothesis was found be valid, few exceptions represented by species-rich genera (e.g., Tanytarsus, Paratanytarsus). can viewed an interim measure waiting for implementation new complementary approaches, such molecular methods.