Structure and Distribution of Zoobenthos of the Kharbey Lake System

Abstract

Zoobenthos communities of Bolshoy Kharbey lake system were studied in 2009-2012. Species composition and trophic structure, fauna of dominant groups (Oligochaeta, Crustacea, Chironomidae), quantitative development and distribution of bottom invertebrates community depending on a depth and sediment characteristics were described. Dominant species were determined and the trophic structure of zoobenthos was analyzed. Gatherer-swallowers prevailed among the trophic groups, which is typical for lakes with intermediate level of trophy. Maps of the spatial distribution of the abundance and biomass of zoobenthos were created. The spatial distribution of invertebrates on an aquatorium of the lake system was patchy. It was determined by diversity of natural conditions and by domination of different groups and species. Crustaceans, worms, larvae of Chironomidae, and in some cases mollusks and amphipods presented the main part in the quantitative structure of zoobenthos

Keywords

• zoobenthos
• structure
• distribution
• biodiversity
• tundra lakes