Ecological relevance of temporary rivers for terrestrial fauna

Abstract

Rivers are considered critical ecosystems for biodiversity, mainly from a classical conception that envisions them with perennial flows, providing pivotal habitats and ecological functions almost exclusively for aquatic and semi-aquatic species. However, temporary rivers represent most of fluvial ecosystems at global scale, and the alternation between wet and dry phases makes them relevant habitats also for invertebrate and vertebrate terrestrial fauna. In this article, the diverse and abundant terrestrial fauna community hosted by temporary rivers is described from taxonomic and functional perspectives. In addition, ecological functions provided for temporary rivers to terrestrial fauna mainly during the dry phase are synthesized, highlighting their role as corridors, as well as providers of water and food, shelters and rest and mating areas. The wide variety of ecosystem services that temporary rivers provide through terrestrial fauna are identified, as well as conservation and management implications of considering terrestrial fauna as a key biological component in temporary rivers. To conclude, knowledge gaps are identified that may limit decision-making when managing and conserving temporary rivers and their biodiversity.