Taxonomic composition and community structure of Trichoptera (Insecta) on the territory of the City of Niš (Serbia)

Abstract

The research of Trichoptera community was performed within the territory of the city of Niš on 10 localities. These localities have different physical and chemical characteristics ranging from hot springs to cold karst streams. Some of them are with a measurable human influence (in the city of Niš), while others are practically without it (Dušničko vrelo). A total number of 16 genera Trichoptera within 11 families were noted. Number of identified species was 20. It was determined that the highest species diversity is in localities with the least human influence. During this study, the presence of the species that has the status of a strictly protected species in Republic of Serbia was recorded. The largest number of localities belongs to β – mesosaprobic waters. It has been found that group Trichoptera is suitable for independent application in bioindicator purposes.

Keywords

• Trichoptera
• Nišava river
• saprobiological analysis
• diversity
• taxonomic composition
• community structure