Macroinvertebrate variation in endorheic depression wetlands in North West and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa

Abstract

Aquatic macroinvertebrates are rarely used in wetland assessments due to their variation. However, in terms of biodiversity, these invertebrates form an important component of wetland fauna. Spatial and temporal variation of macroinvertebrate assemblages in endorheic depressions (locally referred to as ‘pans’) in Mpumalanga and North West provinces were compared in wet and dry seasons in 2012 and 2013. A total of 29 taxa were identified from both provinces, with similarities in the structure of communities, with the exception of one or two species, in perennial endorheic depressions in both provinces. Macroinvertebrates sampled in Mpumalanga endorheic depressions were similar to those reported in previous studies completed in the area, and most macroinvertebrates sampled in Mpumalanga and North West were known to be commonly found in temporary habitats. Long-term studies are required to understand better the ecological functioning of the pans in the North West province.

Keywords: aquatic, macroinvertebrate assemblages, pans, spatial variation