Artificial light at night as a possible driver of E. virgo (Ephemeroptera) decline in a section of the Ebro River
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We studied the evolution of the dusk emerging insect, Ephoron virgo , in a section of the Ebro River (Spain), to estimate the impact of artificial light at night (ALAN) on its population. We analyzed the spatiotemporal patterns of benthic larval densities of E. virgo in 85 km of the river and estimated the number of adults attracted annually during emergence to a bridge with street illumination considered to induce light pollution. E. virgo benthic larvae density decreased with time and proximity to the bridge despite improved water quality. Emergence magnitude at the Tudela Bridge was also declining. We calculated through very conservative estimations that the streetlamps system in the bridge could retain the entire population of this species from up to 20 km of the river benthos. Our findings suggest that ALAN is a potential driver in the reduction of the E. virgo population and could affect its viability.
Source: Hydrobiologia
Authors: Julene González, Maite Arroita, Aitor Larrañaga, Mikel Lizaso, Miguel Ángel Navarro, Eduardo Navascués, Manu Rubio, Arturo Elosegi
Institution: University of the Basque Country
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,490
Award: G1876565139
OpenAlex ID: W4416178967