Work

Crustacean stygofauna in the urban shallow aquifers of Vienna, Austria – biodiversity, community dynamics and environmental drivers

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the diversity and ecological patterns of stygobiont and stygophile crustaceans in shallow groundwater of the city of Vienna, Austria, with a particular focus on amphipods. In total, 47 crustacean taxa were identified, revealing an unexpectedly high diversity in this urban setting. Among these, seven amphipod species were confirmed, largely matching known biogeographic distribution patterns. Molecular analyses based on COI gene sequencing refined amphipod species identification based on morphology and revealed the presence of a potentially undescribed taxon (Niphargus aff. aquilex) as well as the most eastern record of Niphargus tonywhitteni. Availability of dissolved oxygen and associated redox conditions, as well as microbiological-ecological indicators were key in explaining the spatial distribution of taxa. Groundwater temperature and hydrogeology (aquifer type) further influenced occurrence patterns, particularly with respect to amphipods, which preferred lower temperatures and larger sediment pore space. In addition, community-level analyses identified the influence of surface waters as a significant determinant of community composition. Seasonal effects were almost absent. The high overall community homogeneity as well as the limited species-specific environmental preferences among amphipods provide evidence that basic conservation measures are likely to benefit multiple taxa concurrently. However, rare species warrant further targeted investigations. Overall, this study highlights the ecological value of urban aquifers.

Source: Acta ZooBot Austria

DOI: 10.25365/azba.162.06