Land-use changes affect the functional structure of stream fish assemblages in the Brazilian Savanna

Abstract We investigated the mechanisms involved in relationship between land-use changes and aquatic biodiversity, using stream fish assemblages of Brazilian Savanna (i.e., Cerrado) as a study model. tested prediction that landscape degradation would decrease environmental heterogeneity change predominant physical-habitat types, which turn functional diversity alter identity assemblages. sampled from 40 streams Upper Paraná River basin, assessed catchment instream conditions. then conducted an ecomorphological analysis to functionally characterize all species (36) quantify different facets structure detected multiple pathways impacts on Catchment reduced stream-bed complexity canopy shading, decreasing assemblage specialization divergence. Landscape also water volume amount large rocks streams, resulting decreased abundances with bodies morphological traits favor swimming column. conclude intensification caused significant biodiversity Cerrado, reinforcing need pay special attention this global hotspot.