Highland Stream Chironomidae of Malaysia: Distribution and Environmental Assessment Potential
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/mjfas.v22n3.5085Keywords:
Biological indicator, Ecological indices, Water quality, Biological monitoringAbstract
Most chironomids ecological studies has focuses on lowland area and related to the pollution issues. This study examined the diversity of chironomids (Diptera: Chironomidae) in ten highland streams of Pahang, Malaysia, spanning elevations from 436 to 1,575 m. Fifty stations were sampled using a Surber net, with water quality parameters analyzed following APHA protocols. Water quality assessment based on the Malaysian Water Quality Index (WQI) showed all streams were clean (WQI 88–97; Class I–II). Although total suspended solids (TSS) varied significantly (p < 0.05), values remained within good water quality thresholds. Substrate composition, canopy cover, and water velocity also differed significantly between streams, reflecting distinct habitat conditions. A total of 4,859 chironomid larvae were collected, representing three subfamilies: Chironominae (49%), Orthocladiinae (44%), and Tanypodinae (7%). Twenty-nine genera were identified from Chironominae and Orthocladiinae, while Tanypodinae was identified only to the subfamily level. Chironominae, dominated by Polypedilum and Rheotanytarsus were more abundant at lower elevations, whereas Orthocladiinae, dominated by Tvetenia, Cricotopus, and Rheocricotopus, prevailed at higher altitudes. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) revealed altitude, substrate type, and TSS as key factors influencing the distribution. These findings provide the first comprehensive account of highland chironomids in Malaysia and highlight their potential as bioindicators for assessing tropical montane streams.
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