Population Dynamics

Due to the Climate Crisis and urbanization expansions, river temperatures in Puerto Rico are constantly increasing. This alteration to the natural streams' thermal balances may cause lethal physiological consequences to freshwater organisms, especially aquatic insects. Furthermore, the loss of taxonomic richness and abundance due to temperature changes completely alters riparian ecological dynamics. Our project's primary goal is to quantify the effect of anthropogenically altered stream temperatures on the Rhagovelia antilleana population dynamics, using this insect as an experimental model for thermal contamination bioindication in freshwater systems. Such a study will help appraise the role that a changing climate (primarily by anthropogenic acceleration) has on the life traits of a relevant water quality bioindicator and biocontrol agent. Additionally, it could be helpful to develop new and more precise management and conservation plans for riparian systems, considering the current anthropogenic influence on streams' temperature fluctuations and its effect on riverine arthropod richness and abundance.