The Macroinvertebrate Fauna of Nantucket's Perennial and Ephemeral Streams

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aquatic macroinvertebrate sampling in Nantucket streams produced a fauna typical of northeastern first-order low-gradient intermittent and perennial streams. Most taxa appear to be stream-specific, and as such would be particularly susceptible to stream disturbances. Abundance is low overall, with a few exceptions. Stream chemistry measurements fall within expected ranges for developed areas. Dissolved oxygen level, discharge and flow regime may be limiting factors in most of the streams.