The chironomids of the Fulda (Systematic, ecological and faunistic investigations)

Abstract The entire chironomid fauna of a large river, the Fulda, was investigated. In all, 246 species were identified. Each species is treated from ecological, phenological and, in some case, from systematic viewpoints. In order to test the distribution of chironomids with respect to the concept of ILLIES (1953) on biocenoses of rivers, a statistical analysis of the species was carried out. Three sections of the river could be clearly distinguished: krenal, rhithral and potamal. Finally an ecological terminology is suggested for the subdivision of flowing waters still in a natural state