Comparative analysis of aquatic insect, amphipod, and isopod communities in Missouri spring systems

The Ozark Mountains ecoregion of Missouri is well-known for its numerous springs. Although most of these springs are small in size and discharge, several of Missouri’s springs rank amongst the largest in the United States. The goal of this study was to examine the aquatic insect, amphipod, and isopod communities in four large Missouri spring systems located within Missouri state parks in order to assess the differences in aquatic insect, amphipod, and isopod community composition between spring systems. Qualitative samples were taken from available mesohabitats in increments up to 400 meters from the spring orifice using an aquatic D-net. Similarity and cluster analyses were used to elucidate patterns in community composition among these large spring systems. Results show that the two springs with the most similar aquatic insect, amphipod, and isopod communities are those stocked with trout and frequently fished by trout fisherman. The spring least similar to all others may also have trout from connecting waterways, but is smallest in size and has the second largest discharge of the springs sampled. Overall, three of the four sampled springs appear to have rather different aquatic insect, amphipod, and isopod communities, thus confirming the uniqueness of each individual system.