
bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory), Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown
Published: Nov. 3, 2024
Abstract Context Throughout semi-arid and arid Australia surface freshwater is rare, where it does occur, often ephemeral. This the case for granite rock-holes that occur throughout much of southern Australia. Rock-holes support invertebrate communities, however, ongoing threat climate change means this ecosystem likely to experience hydrological disruptions. are also be heavily impacted by invasive vertebrates. However, ecology poorly understood despite its relative ecological significance extent associated threats. Aims methods To provide a baseline understanding we documented species richness variability at series in Gawler bioregion South using an environmental DNA approach. Key results Metabarcoding recorded invertebrates from 22 orders 45 families. Community composition varied among year, with peak winter. Conclusions implications These findings demonstrate importance these ecosystems range endemic taxa. We propose establishment monitoring programs, development custom barcode reference libraries rock-hole future research into impacts on communities them.
Language: Английский