Freshwater macroinvertebrate traits assessment as complementary to taxonomic information for mining impact detection in the northern Peruvian Andes

Aim We studied the distribution of freshwater macroinvertebrate taxa and traits to distinguish ecological gradients among mining-controlled natural headwaters, rural urban economic activity influences. Location In 2016’s dry season, samples were collected at 40 locations in Mashcon watershed, northern Peruvian Andes. Six headwaters directly influenced by mining, eight near-pristine tributary 14 agricultural midstream 12 downstream. Methods Eight (five biological three ecological) selected according data availability, modalities scores assigned using weighted dominant-trait approaches. The relative abundances abiotic conditions compared watershed sections. interpretability ungrouped was verified with a distance-based redundancy analysis. Results high-altitude mining section had fewer types abundance, distinct body forms distributions prevalent sizes communities, relatable control headwaters. Physiological (respiration, mobility attachment, food sources, feeding habits, saprobity pH preferenda) differed quantification approaches less informative high altitudes. from tributaries recovered vegetated section, again be affected downstream section. Main Conclusions Our results suggest presence impairment despite excellent physicochemical quality water discharged mine. obtainment autecological information higher taxonomic resolution, e.g. for ubiquitous like Acari Chironomidae, would needed advance assessment ecologically hydrogeochemically complex Andean ecosystems.