Temporary Ponds in Mediterranean Islands: Oases of Biodiversity

Abstract

The development of tourism in the Mediterranean and the abandonment of traditional extensive agriculture lead to the succession of several different habitat types. One of the most endangered habitats in Mediterranean region are temporary ponds. Despite small size, these ephemeral waterbodies are recognized as reservoirs of biodiversity. Shallow ponds are often only freshwater habitats on islands. In this chapter we will mainly focus on biotic interactions among macrophytes, zooplankton, macrozoobenthos and fish. With this approach we will try to give guidelines for conservation and restoration in order to prevent succession and devastation of ponds.