Urban stream assessment system (UsAs): An integrative tool to assess biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services

Urban streams and ecosystems are highly affected by the intense development of cities an increase impervious surfaces. If these environments close to their pristine state, they can be considered a nature-based solution promoting integration both green blue elements in cities, while providing wide range services (e.g. better aesthetics, air quality, leisure areas, mitigation climatic changes). In view this, current study aimed develop holistic assessment tool for urban that used highlight importance support decision makers elaboration measures recover streams. The called stream Assessment system (UsAs) includes (1) biodiversity, (2) ecological functions habitat inherent components ecosystems, (3) provisioning, regulating, cultural services, following Millennium Ecosystem (MA) Common International Classification Services (CICES). 89 indicators belonging 17 divisions (services functions) selected from studies on areas fluvial ecosystems. addition, introduces method measurement indicator, rationale positive negative scope reference proposed method. incorporates also step-by-step scoring system, which results global quality classification UsAs was tested with case located city Coimbra, Central Portugal. final attributed this moderate, is slightly higher than status, highlighting its potential ecosystem (ES). However, clearly showed poor biodiversity (namely aquatic invertebrates, amphibians, fish, mammals, terrestrial insects), conditions most compromised could improved: water supply, health well-being. use novel supports new research knowledge particularly generating relevant data answer test important questions, such as influence functioning services. Further investigation should focus more tests different types streams, regions, climates.