Stonefly (Plecoptera: Perlidae) distribution in the East Branch of the Maple River: the influence of channel velocity, substrate composition, and mayfly presence.

This study examines how channel velocity, substrate size and type, and mayfly (Ephemeroptera) presence influence stonefly (Plecoptera: Perlidae) distribution in a northern Michigan stream. Four sites were sampled along a stretch of the East Branch of the Maple River. Perlidae were significantly more abundant in areas with faster channel velocities, larger substrates, more cobble, and higher mayfly densities. The observed relationship between increasing Perlidae density and increasing velocity, substrate size, and percent cobble may be attributed to higher oxygen flows, increased interstitial space, and increased substrate stability. The observed relationship between increasing Perlidae densities and increasing mayfly densities may be attributed to predator-prey interactions.http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/54779/1/3220.pdfDescription of 3220.pdf : Access restricted to on-site users at the U-M Biological Station