Ants as Bioindicators of Riparian Ecological Health in Catalonian Rivers

In this study, we assess the potential of ants as bioindicators riparian ecological health in two river types (upland and lowland type) located Catalonian region. We proposed to understand what extent do metrics based on ant responses provide useful information that cannot be presented by traditional biophysical assessments while attempting an approach creating ant-based multimetric index (ant-based MMI) health. A total 22 species were identified, 42 related foraging activity, richness, functional traits evaluated core index. Riparian features proximal land use cover (LULC) used distinguish disturbed from less sites. found communities strongly responded human disturbance. When compared with exclusively physical-based for assessment health, MMI was more sensitive disturbance, also reacting effects surrounding LULC pressure. This study provides a preliminary tool evaluate corridors although additional research is required include other wider stressor gradient before application.