Influence of habitat characteristics on the assemblage and distribution of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) at selected recreational rivers in Kelantan, Malaysia

Abstract

This study was carried out to identify the habitat factors that contribute to the variation of EPT at three recreational rivers in Kelantan, Malaysia. Therefore, the further implementation of EPT index as bio-indicator can be standardized and efficient. The results showed that, EPT assemblage and distribution at these rivers varies even though there is no significant difference in the water quality. Water quality of all the rivers are in the range of ‘good’ level. Therefore, regression analysis was made to confirm the main factors influencing the variation of EPT assemblage within selected recreational rivers in Kelantan, Malaysia. The substrate composition appeared as the main factor influencing the variation in distribution and composition of EPT in good water quality from the analysis. Thus, it is concluded that the substrate composition is the major factor influencing the composition and distribution of EPT in recreational river (good water quality).

Keywords: recreational rivers; EPT; regression analysis; substrate