A review of zooplankton research in Chile

Abstract

This study is a review of literature records on diversity, distribution and ecology of the Chilean inland water zooplankton including microcrustaceans (Copepoda, Branchiopoda), rotifera (Bdelloida and Monogononta) and ciliated protozoa. For that, several databases were consulted, and about 239 records were analysed and evaluated. The results revealed that in total about 109 water bodies have been sampled in Chile. Crustacea are well studied in the entire Chilean territory, whereas records on Rotifera and Ciliata are more restricted to the Central and Southern zones. Within Crustacea calanoid copepods of the genus Boeckella and to lower degree Cladocera (Branchiopoda) predominate. Anostraca are reported for hypersaline waterbodies and ephemeral pools, whereas Laevicaudata and Spinicaudata (Branchiopoda) are only found in shallow ephemeral pools. Regarding rotifers, 121 species were identified, whereas 46 species of ciliated protozoa were registered in lentic water bodies of the Southern zone. Ecological studies included different aspects as population dynamics, vertical migration, diapause, role of ultraviolet radiation among others. We discuss also shortcomings and future studies. Future studies should consider more in detail population dynamics, molecular topics to better assess taxonomical determinations, trophic interactions within the food webs and effects of global changes at population and community level.