Invertebrates of Freshwater Temporary Ponds in Mediterranean Climates

Mediterranean temporary ponds are present in five biogeographical regions, which are characterized by hot dry summers and cool mild winters. These ponds host high levels of biodiversity and endemism. More than 200 families and 630 genera of invertebrates have been reported, including iconic large branchiopods. Mediterranean climates show strong temporal variability, reflected in large intra- and inter-annual changes in pond hydroperiod that drive patterns in invertebrate communities. Consequently, community dynamics are more temporally variable than in cold-temperate temporary ponds. Globally, temporary pond conservation has been neglected and many ponds have already been lost despite the presence of legal protections and high ecological importance. Future biodiversity protection requires mosaics of ponds with diverse hydroperiods, preserving natural hydroregimes.KeywordsInvertebrates, temporary ponds, Mediterranean regions, seasonal succession, life‑histories, predation, conservation