Zooplankton of anthropogenic habitats of the Severo-Dvinsky sluice system

The article presents the results of studying zooplankton anthropogenic habitats of the Severo-Dvinsky sluice system (Vologda region). The research was conducted on six canals in July 2010. Sampling stations were distributed throughout the water system. Artificial water bodies of the Severo-Dvinsky water system were studied in Vologda region for the first time. In the zooplankton composition the species affiliation of rotifers (Rotifera) and crustaceans (Cladocera, Copepoda) was considered and determined. The dominant complex of species was revealed. The average number and biomass of species and groups, the Shannon-Weaver species diversity indices, and the average individual mass of organisms were calculated. The results showed that the composition of zooplankton of the canals was similar, and included 33 taxons (11 - Rotifera, 15 - Cladocera, 7 - Copepoda). Most species are typical for the water bodies of the taiga zone and have a wide ecological plasticity. Pelagic and benthic species prevail in the communities. Zooplankton of the canals is characterized by high values of species diversity index, low abundance and biomass, pronounced dominance of copepods. The colonization of the canals was carried out by organisms from small lakes and the Sheksna reservoir. Simple bottom configuration, the absence of a pronounced shallow-water zone and the wave impact determined the structure of modern communities. The absence of a vegetation zone and high turbidity of water are unfavorable for the development of a lot of organisms. Compared to small lakes, zooplankton of the canals is characterized by low species richness, abundance and biomass, the dominance of a small number of species, the predominance of small size individuals. Wherein, the structure of the dominant complex is similar. The identified features of the zooplankton of the canals are directly related to their anthropogenic origin and use as transport routes.