Indicators for Climate Change Impacts - Rivers in temperate ecoregions, Small rivers
Replacement of cold-stenothermic by eurythermic species
| Stressor type | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Responding parameter group | Biological parameters |
| Responding parameter | Replacement of cold-stenothermic by eurythermic species |
Response description
Higher temperatures will favour eurythermic species in formerly cold water habitats.
Secondary effects
The cold-stenothermic species are threatened by warmer water temperatures.
Specification of relevant ecosystem type
Relevant for all small rivers in temperate ecoregions.
Relevant ecoregion(s) according to Illies
Pyrenees (2), Alps (4), Western Mountains (8), Central Mountains (9), Carpathians (10)
Suggested indicator
Water temperature (minimum monthly values)
Justification of indicator
Minimum temperature is a key survival factor. The tolerance of low temperatures decides about the presence and the absence of a species in a certain habitat.
