@article{2-s2.0-85192711201,

title = {Mine Wastewater Effect on the Aquatic Diversity and the Ecological Status of the Watercourses in Southern Poland},

author = { K. Mitko and P. Dydo and A.K. Milewski and J. Bok-Badura and A. Jakóbik-Kolon and T. Krawczyk and A. Cieplok and M. Krodkiewska and A. Spyra and G. Gzyl and A. Skalny and B. Kończak and M. Bałazińska and P. Labaj and A. Tetłak and M. Kyriazi and S. Klempetsani},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85192711201&doi=10.3390%2fw16091292&partnerID=40&md5=a099a75de0e233fa4e4af129f99e9ce4},

doi = {10.3390/w16091292},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {16},

number = {9},

publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},

abstract = {Coal mining activity contributes to energy security and employment occupation, but is associated with environmental deterioration. Coal combustion leads to GHG emissions, while coal mining results in the generation of saline effluents. These effluents are discharged in inland surface waters, applying significant pressure on their quality, with a negative impact on aquatic life and the economy of a region. This study includes water samples that were analyzed in order to investigate the organic compounds, heavy metals, and other physicochemical parameters. Biological monitoring was done according to the Water Framework Directive methodology. The results from an aquatic area in Southern Poland, which indirectly receives coal mine effluents, indicate elevated salinity with excessive chlorides, sulfates, and sodium ions. The water quality of another non-polluted aquatic area was also assessed to examine the impact of indirect coal mine wastewater discharge on this area. The high salinity levels hinder the use of river water for drinking, agricultural, or industrial purposes. The results obtained show high pressure on the ecological status of streams and rivers that receive mine effluents, and on the density and diversity of aquatic invertebrates. This pressure is clearly visible in the structure of benthic communities and in invertebrate diversity. It also contributes to the appearance of invasive species and increasing water salinity. Limiting discharges of mine water transporting large loads of saline substances would reduce the negative impact on the quality of river waters and biological life. © 2024 by the authors.},

note = {0},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85165241666,

title = {Beavers ecosystem altering: Influence of beaver dams on aquatic invertebrates in newly created beavers ponds and small mountain river},

author = { A. Spyra and A. Cieplok and M. Krodkiewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85165241666&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecohyd.2023.06.009&partnerID=40&md5=e96bd299f4813c8afc0f8b5b501b1ec7},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecohyd.2023.06.009},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Ecohydrology and Hydrobiology},

volume = {24},

number = {2},

pages = {249-261},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Beaver-created ponds constitute an important element of small water retention in forest catchments and preserving biodiversity as breeding sites for vertebrates and invertebrates. In many areas, these habitats disappear as a result of drainage melioration, drainage formed from agricultural and developmental needs, and liquidation by littering and backfilling. This study was carried out from 2017 to 2019 to understand the transformations of river valley as a result of the beaver activity in the context of newly created ponds and mountain stream and to assess the changes and biodiversity. Beavers modified in-stream habitat by constructing dams, thus creating a series of interconnected dam ponds. Organic matter retention was higher in beaver ponds relative to unmodified river section. In beaver ponds, the invertebrate aquatic assemblages was highly variable. A total of 56 taxa were identified, and significant seasonal variability of benthos assemblages. The values of diversity indices confirmed the instability of benthos assemblage in beaver ponds (variability of species amongst years and sites), which may be related to the short period of their existence. Lotic macroinvertebrate assemblages were common in the beaver-modified section of stream, with some lentic taxa also being present. The unmodified section of stream had more abundant collectors- gatherers and predators and no filter feeders, while scrapers were more abundant in modified section. The environmental variables which significantly influenced invertebrate occurrence were pH, nitrates, iron and the content of organic matter. The results contribute to ecological characteristics of these aquatic environments, and enable determining their functioning in forest areas. © 2023 European Regional Centre for Ecohydrology of the Polish Academy of Sciences},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85175583645,

title = {Globally invasive Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843) – an indicator of the degraded water systems in relation to native aquatic invertebrates},

author = { A. Cieplok and A. Spyra and R. Czerniawski},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85175583645&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecolind.2023.111194&partnerID=40&md5=809eaa4a86d0efb274c47d1c77f351af},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecolind.2023.111194},

issn = {1470160X},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Ecological Indicators},

volume = {156},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Global changes in climate and human impact favour invasions of aquatic organisms. Along with habitat modification, the abundance of invasive species might increase, leading to their greater impact on ecosystems functioning in disturbed areas. The appearance of species, which are drivers for ecosystem pollution are useful tool for the indication of some environmental changes in the area. We examine the occurrence of P. antipodarum populations, a global invader that established rivers, oxbow lakes, dam reservoirs, sand pits, gravel pits, and subsidence ponds in Poland (Central Europe). The research aims were to determine the extent of invasion in anthropogenically impacted habitats and the relationship between the abundance of aquatic invertebrates and oxygen concentration, pH, N-NO2, N-NO3, chlorides, and ammonia. This investigation helps elucidate the potential of invader to adapt to adverse environmental conditions in aquatic systems in which it was found dominant. The abundance of P. antipodarum showed an unimodal distribution, being higher in disturbed conditions. In snail communities it was a supereudominant or eudominant species in rivers, gravel pits, sand pits and subsidence ponds. Its relative abundance was the highest in gravel pits, in which it constituted more than 50 percent of benthic fauna. We demonstrated that environmental disturbances and pollution increase the vulnerability of water biocoenoses to invasions and the origin of free niches and that P. antipodarum is an indicator of degraded water systems. Results support the management of aquatic systems colonized by invasive species and highlight the need to assess the level of pollution discharged to prevent their dispersion. Management priorities must include the reduction or halt of invader spread because new aquatic environments are and will be created in industrial areas of the world. © 2023 The Author(s)},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85149932914,

title = {Analysis of the Salinity of the Vistula River Based on Patrol Monitoring and State Environmental Monitoring},

author = { A. Woźnica and D. Absalon and M. Matysik and M. Bąk and A. Cieplok and D. Halabowski and A. Koczorowska and M. Krodkiewska and M. Libera and E.M. Sierka and A. Spyra and R. Czerniawski and Ł. Sługocki and B. Łozowski},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85149932914&doi=10.3390%2fw15050838&partnerID=40&md5=a1b9ba5b610a3021fd3cad70380682bc},

doi = {10.3390/w15050838},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {15},

number = {5},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {Background: Secondary salinity of river water reduces the value of ecosystem services, negatively impacting the entire aquatic ecosystem and reducing the possibility of water use. In Poland, significant anthropogenic salinity of rivers and water reservoirs is usually associated with mining activity consisting of pumping salty mine water into settling ponds or often directly into rivers. However, to assess the reasons for the salinity of the Vistula waters, it is necessary to identify all sources of salt in surface waters, enabling the assessment of the salt load in the waters. Methods: The paper presents four sources of data which have been compiled to propose a valuable method for analyzing the threat of the river. Patrol monitoring was one method of data acquisition, and State Environmental Monitoring data ware also used. Clustering and correlation statistical techniques were used for analysis. Results: Of the 20 physical and chemical parameters analyzed, chloride, calcium sulphate and magnesium ions are important for salinity. Measurements with multi-parameter probes allowed for the identification of increased salinity pressure sites, while flow analyses were required to calculate the load. Conclusions: The Vistula River had the highest concentrations of the analyzed ions in the Silesia Region. The use of patrol monitoring can be highly useful in determining the causes of emerging problems with water quality and supporting State Environmental Monitoring. © 2023 by the authors.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85164674732,

title = {From extremely acidic to alkaline: Aquatic invertebrates in forest mining lakes under the pressure of acidification},

author = { A. Spyra and A. Cieplok and N. Kaszyca-Taszakowska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85164674732&doi=10.1002%2firoh.202102121&partnerID=40&md5=bc84bed3caea666394c66166c3cad2fe},

doi = {10.1002/iroh.202102121},

issn = {14342944},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {International Review of Hydrobiology},

volume = {108},

number = {1-3},

pages = {5-16},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc},

abstract = {Human activities, including the mining industry, have considerably degraded water habitats worldwide. Acidification has severely affected aquatic environments and biodiversity by altering food webs and reducing species richness. The study area in southern Poland is unique in addressing the effects of mining-related acidification on biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems along a broad pH gradient (2.4–9.6) in mining lakes. Study was designed to test for effect of human induced acidification. Using multivariate ordination techniques, we analyzed how variations in invertebrate composition are related to environmental factors. The results indicated that pH, hardness, total dissolved solids, and the content of ammonia and calcium were significantly associated with the distribution of invertebrates in the studied mining lakes. The highest iron content, relatively high values of conductivity, and chlorides were found in the extremely acidic mining lakes. A clear trend in decreasing density with decreasing pH was observed for taxa such as Oligochaeta, Chironomidae, Glossiphonidae, and certain taxa of snails. However, the density of other taxa such as Lestidae, Libellulidae, Caenidae, Sialidae, Helodidae, Hydrophilidae, and Polycentropodidae increased with decreasing pH. Specific communities were found with increasing acidity. Therefore, a further increase in acidity will probably cause a stronger decline in most of taxa and their density, and on water chemistry (e.g.; calcium concentration; nitrites; and hardness). The data yielded offer an opportunity to fill knowledge gaps on acidic stress concerning less-studied environments such as mining lakes and link environmental pollution with communities, which is especially important, because aquatic forest habitats are especially exposed to different climatic factors and threats. © 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85143676533,

title = {The Role of Habitat Protection in Maintaining the Diversity of Aquatic Fauna in Rural and Industrial Areas},

author = { A. Cieplok and M. Krodkiewska and I. Franiel and R. Starzak and Ma. Sowa and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85143676533&doi=10.3390%2fw14233983&partnerID=40&md5=a6e31eb7e469de2646afd7adeb0a50e9},

doi = {10.3390/w14233983},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {14},

number = {23},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {In Natural Landscape Complexes and Ecological Sites, local environmental protection is used to cover previous industrial activities, fragments of the cultural landscape, and habitats of both vertebrates and invertebrates. In water bodies within the different types of habitat protection, aquatic invertebrate fauna was studied to investigate whether it is a general rule that different forms of protection ensure the diversity of aquatic invertebrates in rural and industrial areas. The research revealed differences between invertebrate assemblages within complexes and between reservoirs. Compared with unprotected reservoirs located in the same area, in the majority of the studied water bodies, either no alien species were found or their relative abundance in assemblages was very low. Significant differences in the density, the number of taxa, the diversity, and the percentage of alien species were observed between different geographical locations. The location of water bodies within the protected area plays an important role in maintaining benthos diversity in industrial areas. These findings are useful for comparison with those of future research to document possible improvements or ongoing ecological regression in the quality of aquatic ecosystems in industrial areas. This study can help guide revisions of protected habitat networks for adequate protection of freshwater biodiversity in industrial areas. © 2022 by the authors.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85138463371,

title = {Assessment of pollution, and ecological status in rivers located in the Vistula and Oder river basins impacted by the mining industry in Central Europe (Poland)},

author = { M. Krodkiewska and A. Spyra and A. Cieplok},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85138463371&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecolind.2022.109505&partnerID=40&md5=974d1ce39f7efff73b82d34b605e32c4},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecolind.2022.109505},

issn = {1470160X},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Ecological Indicators},

volume = {144},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Many regions of the world are industrialised and urbanized like the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB), which is located in one of the most industrialized areas of Europe. Due to the presence of coal and other mineral deposits and their excavation, this area is subject to extensive industrialization, including the functioning of mining and metallurgy industries. According to the Water Framework Directive, water released from mines contains a wide range of pollutants and hence poses a serious threat to the ecology of river systems, eventually resulting in their degradation. The aim of this study was to assess the ecological status of rivers located in the Vistula and Oder river basins, which are affected by the coal mining industry. In this study, macroinvertebrates were used as biological response on the water pollution, and were collected at 30 sampling sites in 12 rivers following the methodology of monitoring studies. The results revealed major differences in the parameters related to river salinity and nutrient loads in the studied rivers. Only the two rivers, Żylica and Liswarta, showed good ecological status, while bad ecological status was recorded for Bierawka, Rawa, Łęgoń, and Biała Przemsza rivers. A redundancy analysis of the results indicated the following: the quality class was positively related to the degree of conductivity; the density of macroinvertebrates was positively related to a higher content of N-NO2 (Nitrite nitrogen) and EPT (The number of families from Ephemeropthera; Plecoptera and Trichoptera), ASPT (average score per taxon PL), and 1-GOLD (abundance of Gastropod; Oligochaeta; and Diptera) indices were positively related to a higher content of dissolved oxygen. The condition of water and benthic invertebrates was significantly influenced by the industrial catchment, which was apparent from the ecological status of the studied systems. The rivers in the most industrialized part of this area were found to be characterized by worse conditions. © 2022 The Authors},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85137359333,

title = {Structure and dynamics of gastropod communities in highly transformed aquatic environments colonized and uncolonized by globally invasive Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843)},

author = { A. Spyra and A. Cieplok},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85137359333&doi=10.3391%2fai.2022.17.3.07&partnerID=40&md5=c54bcdbe91e29bec40bfcd4a305befa4},

doi = {10.3391/ai.2022.17.3.07},

issn = {17986540},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Aquatic Invasions},

volume = {17},

number = {3},

pages = {431-452},

publisher = {Regional Euro-Asian Biological Invasions Centre},

abstract = {We examined the association between habitat parameters and gastropod communities across a number of freshwater ecosystems, whose biodiversity has been affected by increased mining activities over decades. Reservoirs inhabited by the New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray; 1843)) exhibited different abiotic conditions than waterbodies that were not, such as higher salinity indicators (max. conductivity 13400 μS/cm; TDS 7700 mg/l and chlorides 7200 mg/l), and degraded water quality. In such water bodies P. antipodarum density was high (max. 23686/m2). Further, invaded waters were inhabited by less diverse gastropod communities than reservoirs without P. antipodarum. The invader has established reproducing populations and were the dominant species (D 87.53%), or formed mono-specific assemblages, in the reservoirs. Our results indicate that P. antipodarum occurred in habitats whose conditions are unfavorable or less preferred by other species, such as those with high conductivity, and high concentrations of chlorides and calcium. Since this snail is known to inhabit water bodies with degraded water quality, we assumed that along with the progressing development of industries worldwide, this species will continue to spread to industrial areas and will inhabit increasing numbers of anthropogenically affected water environments. Our study contributes to the global understanding of the mechanisms involved in successful establishment in waters by P. antipodarum, and is especially novel in addressing its occurrence in anthropogenically created ecosystems. Our results showed that human impact is the cause of the trend in P. antipodarum populations, and compared habitats from the perspective of both abiotic parameters and community structure. Human activities can have a significant impact on water quality that can result in the permanent establishment of P. antipodarum populations, especially when the environment is not favorable for the native species. © Spyra and Cieplok.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85137843078,

title = {Morphological diversification of alien and native aquatic snails of the genus Physa and Aplexa (Gastropoda: Physidae) of Western and Central European range},

author = { A. Cieplok and R. Anderson and M. Gawlak and T. Kałuski and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85137843078&doi=10.11646%2fzootaxa.5168.2.1&partnerID=40&md5=0fcf1fccdc1278eeb426f94c7a389c0c},

doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5168.2.1},

issn = {11755326},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Zootaxa},

volume = {5168},

number = {2},

pages = {101-118},

publisher = {Magnolia Press},

abstract = {This is the first comparative study on alien and native Physidae (Gastropoda: Heterobranchia) from Western and Central Europe. Morphology, ecological features and distribution are presented for each physid species. We analysed taxonomical features of physid snails from Europe in great detail. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods were used to elucidate the external morphology of the shells of physid gastropods that occur in Western and Central Europe. On comparison we found significant differences in the external morphology among the species. Morphological analyses facilitate the recognition of variations of physid shells. An interspecific similarities were noted within Physidae while interspecific differences were identified in the morphology of apex and spires. The lowest intraspecific variability in shells was noted between particular individuals of P. fontinalis and A. hypnorum. The most characteristic features and differences of representatives of Physidae are presented and discussed. This is especially important for the identification of Physa gyrina and the worldwide invasive species Physa acuta which resemble each other in shape and are difficult to distinguish. We also present a new identification key for physid species, including the results of ecological assessment and discuss current distribution of these species in Europe. Copyright © 2022 Magnolia Press.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85119096100,

title = {The colonization of a cold spring ecosystem by the invasive species potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843) (gastropoda: Tateidae) (southern poland)},

author = { M. Krodkiewska and A. Cieplok and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85119096100&doi=10.3390%2fw13223209&partnerID=40&md5=f9c9eb273b7f03a828f904b3492b15d4},

doi = {10.3390/w13223209},

issn = {20734441},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Water (Switzerland)},

volume = {13},

number = {22},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {Springs are unique aquatic environments that support specific biota, including endemic species and rare species listed in Red Lists. Due to their usually small size, springs are highly sensitive to disturbance. Many of them are threatened by aquifer depletion, contamination, surface-water diversion, livestock trampling, recreation, and invasive species. The aim of this study was to assess the colonization success of the invasive New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) in a cold spring ecosystem in southern Poland. In Europe, this species has recently been added to the top “hundred worst” alien species due to its impact on invaded ecosystems. The study was carried out in two areas of the spring ecosystem—in the springhead and the springbrook—over a four-year period. Potamopyrus antipodarum dominated the benthic macroinvertebrate communities in both areas of the spring ecosystem. Nevertheless, its abundance in the springbrook was significantly greater, and increased noticeably during subsequent years compared to that in the springhead. The populations of P. antipodarum were exclusively composed of females. Smaller-sized New Zealand mudsnails were more abundant near the spring’s source than at the second site. The females at the springhead became fecund at sizes as small as 3.7 mm (the number of embryos was between 0 and 37), while at the springbrook, embryos were found in snails as small as 3.4 mm (the number of embryos was between 0 and 42). Our results suggest that the lower water temperature at the spring-head may limit the population size of P. antipodarum, thus making its density too low to be able to affect the community structure of benthic macroinvertebrates, including the spring snail Bythinella cf. austriaca. © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85088046677,

title = {The roles of spatial and environmental variables in the appearance of a globally invasive Physa acuta in water bodies created due to human activity},

author = { A. Cieplok and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85088046677&doi=10.1016%2fj.scitotenv.2020.140928&partnerID=40&md5=7c362839b9b41f8ca8dbcee7b2681d32},

doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140928},

issn = {00489697},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Science of the Total Environment},

volume = {744},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Anthropogenic pollution of freshwater environments is a subject of serious international concern since they affect freshwater and land environments. The disturbances in the functioning of ecosystems that result from various forms of human activity permit them to be settled by alien species. Research was carried out in 84 anthropogenic water bodies using quantitative methods for sampling, laboratory analysis and multivariate statistical methods. The appearance of P. acuta in these water bodies seems to depend on their water chemistry. Physa acuta primarily occurred in waters with a very low content of ammonia, medium salinity and hardness, and in waters with a higher pH. The density of P. acuta decreased along with its dominance index, which indicates that in water bodies in which its density was low, the other snail species achieved higher densities. This suggest competitive displacement of native species at high densities of P. acuta. Cluster analysis showed that water bodies in which P. acuta was abundant were similar in the snail community composition in contrast to water bodies in which it wasn't present. Research on colonisation of freshwater habitats by alien species in freshwater habitats is important because in the future, the number of alien species is likely to increase as a result of climate change and their ability to overcome the existing barriers as well as with the progressive colonisation of new areas outside of their native range. © 2020 Elsevier B.V.},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85072585985,

title = {Freshwater alien species Physella acuta (Draparnaud, 1805) - A possible model for bioaccumulation of heavy metals},

author = { A. Spyra and A. Cieplok and M. Strzelec and A. Babczyńska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85072585985&doi=10.1016%2fj.ecoenv.2019.109703&partnerID=40&md5=168ce730e37013c197802ec6cd528950},

doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.109703},

issn = {01476513},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety},

volume = {185},

publisher = {Academic Press},

abstract = {In this study we focused on Physella acuta, an alien snail species in order to determine their ability of bioaccumulation of heavy metals in their shells, bodies, the difference in accumulation in relation to age classes, and the influence of ecological variables on the community composition and density. On the basis of the results of ecological, toxicological, and experimental analyses we aimed to study the potential invasive features of P. acuta in comparision with the native species Stagnicola palustris. The content of Cu and Zn in the substratum and ammonia in the water was strongly related to the patterns of distribution of P. acuta. The content of Cd, Pb, and Cu in the shell fraction was always significantly lower than in the body fraction. A comparison of accumulation with respect to the size classes of P. acuta indicated that the lowest metal concentration in the body was typical for the largest individuals, except for Zn. Metal content in the bodies of the native species did not differ from the content measured in their analogous group of the largest individuals of P. acuta. The lowest value of bioaccumulation factor (BAF) was found for the large class of specimens of this species for each metal. A distinct decrease in the value of BAF in relation to the size of snails was found for cadmium. A 100% hatching success found in masses collected from pond confirmed the high reproductive potential of P. acuta which can be a factor that promotes its invasive features following its ability to occur in very high densities, but not necessarily the ability of metal accumulation in the body. Physella acuta can be used as a model organism in the studies on the accumulation of heavy metals however, the extend of accumulation can differ among the age classes. Because of the high tolerance of P. acuta to heavy metal pollution, in the future this species can be found in significantly polluted habitats, inhabiting free ecological niches, and occurring in high densities in snail communities. © 2019 The Authors},

note = {13},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85063292063,

title = {The implications of the impact of the recreational use of forest mining ponds on benthic invertebrates with special emphasis on gastropods},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85063292063&doi=10.2478%2fs11756-019-00221-2&partnerID=40&md5=d7b14b6c13e3db17d75eb713f814665a},

doi = {10.2478/s11756-019-00221-2},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Biologia},

volume = {74},

number = {8},

pages = {981-992},

publisher = {De Gruyter},

abstract = {The relationships between the distribution and diversity patterns of benthic invertebrates in forest ponds used for different recreational activities were examined in this study. The study was based on sampling of benthic invertebrates, plant coverage, physical and chemical analysis of water samples and multivariate species analysis. Mining ponds varied in their solution chemistry and plant cover, with those used for recreation having significantly lower invertebrate occurrences (755 ind. m−2) compared to ponds with no recreational use (2629 ind. m−2). Statistically significant differences were also observed in the density of Oligochaeta, Hirudinea, Coleoptera, Trichoptera and Diptera between the two types of ponds. Overall, gastropods were more diverse and abundant in ponds not used for recreation. This appeared to relate strongly to plant cover, since cover was greatly reduced in recreational ponds, although plant diversity was enhanced. Density and diversity of benthic invertebrates was also observed to differ in relation to the kind of recreational use involved (recreational angling; swimming; power boating) although this was not quantified. The occurrence of freshwater snails primarily depended on the Ca concentration, the conductivity of the water and plant cover, but recreational disturbance appeared to reduce abundance where it occurred and was related to a reduction in overall plant cover. © 2019, The Author(s).},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85044292648,

title = {The impact of environmental factors on benthos communities and freshwater gastropod diversity in urban sinkhole ponds in roadside and forest contexts},

author = { M. Krodkiewska and M. Strzelec and A. Spyra and I. Lewin},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85044292648&doi=10.1080%2f01426397.2018.1441387&partnerID=40&md5=0f0c38b4761b08a254c49e426398f48e},

doi = {10.1080/01426397.2018.1441387},

issn = {01426397},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Landscape Research},

volume = {44},

number = {4},

pages = {477-492},

publisher = {Routledge},

abstract = {Sinkhole ponds originated as a result of human activity leading to ground subsidence and create important habitats for the diversity of benthos fauna in urban areas. The objectives of this study were to determine whether the context (roadside/forest) is important in relation to the composition and diversity of macroinvertebrates, and to evaluate the influence of environmental factors (e.g. water quality) on snail communities. The study showed that the context of ponds had an impact on the properties of the water. Ponds located along roads were characterised by higher conductivity and a higher concentration of calcium and phosphates. The fauna was composed of 47 taxa, including 26 taxa found in both pond contexts. The density of macroinvertebrates was higher in forest ponds. CCA analysis showed that conductivity and concentration of nitrates were most strongly associated with the distribution of gastropods. Alien snail species more often inhabited the roadside ponds. © 2018, © 2018 Landscape Research Group Ltd.},

note = {2},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85048363038,

title = {Activity of beavers as an ecological factor that affects the benthos of small rivers - a case study in the Żylica River (Poland)},

author = { M. Strzelec and K. Białek and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85048363038&doi=10.2478%2fs11756-018-0073-y&partnerID=40&md5=738326646d0d55e52c6fc7bfa8752664},

doi = {10.2478/s11756-018-0073-y},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Biologia (Poland)},

volume = {73},

number = {6},

pages = {577-588},

publisher = {Springer},

abstract = {The Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) has a greater impact on local ecosystems than other herbivores, and the affected area exceeds the range of its presence. Its activity may change or create new habitats by modifying the availability of the biotic and abiotic resources available not only to beavers, but also to other groups of animals. Our aim was to study how beaver activity affects the benthos composition in a small river and in a beaver pond. The way in which beavers function in the case of small rivers has received little attention. The study showed a lower density of benthos above the dam (beaver pond - 1467 ind./m2) compared to the river (3147 ind./m2). Below the dam, the diversity of Trichoptera and Coleoptera was greater, while Diptera were more abundant in the beaver pond. Betidae were a constant component in the benthos assemblages and were most abundant in the beaver pond. Collectors-gatherers and predators were the most numerous in the beaver pond. Decreasing percentages of collectors-gatherers were observed with an increased abundance of collectors-filterers and shredders in the river. All of the ratio values except the P/T FFG (Predators to total of all other groups) were lower in the beaver pond compared to the river. The % EPT (Ephemeroptera Plecoptera and Trichoptera) was also greater in the beaver pond. Small differences in the physicochemical properties of the water and organic matter content in the bottom sediments were found both above and below the beaver dam. © 2018, The Author(s).},

note = {7},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85046853809,

title = {Distribution Patterns and Habitat Requirements of Freshwater Snails in Man-Made Ponds},

author = { A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85046853809&doi=10.5735%2f086.055.0102&partnerID=40&md5=81718e3af7206628925621e2c23d630c},

doi = {10.5735/086.055.0102},

issn = {0003455X},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Annales Zoologici Fennici},

volume = {55},

number = {1-3},

pages = {1-14},

publisher = {Finnish Zoological and Botanical Publishing Board},

abstract = {The study was carried out to understand the factors that affect community structure and generate heterogeneity in gastropod species diversity in various types of man-made ponds (e.g.; subsidence ponds; sand pits and fish ponds at forested and non-forested locations). The studied waterbodies differed in water chemistry, bottom sediment type, source and drainage of water and in terms of snail occurrence patterns. Differences in gastropod species composition were related to differences in bottom sediments and water chemistry. Two-way indicator species analysis split the clusters into four groups with respect to substratum type and location. Forest ponds were important for the gastropod diversity and specifically for Planorbidae species. © 2018 Finnish Zoological and Botanical Publishing Board.},

note = {5},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85031703508,

title = {Acidic, neutral and alkaline forest ponds as a landscape element affecting the biodiversity of freshwater snails},

author = { A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85031703508&doi=10.1007%2fS00114-017-1495-Z&partnerID=40&md5=6a93a3be7fc296f1e4c8e3a18c554fcf},

doi = {10.1007/S00114-017-1495-Z},

issn = {00281042},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Science of Nature},

volume = {104},

number = {9-10},

pages = {73-},

publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH},

abstract = {In recent years, the number of areas remaining under the influence of acidity has increased. At all levels of ecosystems, biodiversity decreases with acidification, due to the elimination of species that are most sensitive to low pH. Forest ponds belong to a specific group that varied in location, a huge amount of leaf litter, and isolation from other aquatic environments. They are crucial in the industrial landscape with well-developed industry and human activity. The aim was to investigate the relative importance of water chemistry in explaining snail assemblage compositions and species rich-ness in forest ponds of contrasting pH. Patterns in gastropod communities were determined from an analysis in 26 forest ponds with multivariate gradient analysis. Ponds ranged in a base mean pH from 3.0 to 9.0. pH has been found to be an important factor influencing gastropod fauna. Neutral ponds support diverse communities, typical of small water bodies. In two acidic pond types, snail fauna was different. Among the species characteristic for acidic ponds (pH < 6) were Anisus spirorbis and Aplexa hypnorum. The greatest distinct characterised alkaline ponds with the numerous appearance of alien Physa acuta. The most diverse gastropod fauna was found in neutral ponds, whereas the lowest degree of diversity was found in ponds with the lowest pH. Current knowledge of pH-associated changes in aquatic ecosystems is still incomplete because anthropogenic acidification is a recent phenomenon. It is extremely important in forest habitats, since they react more intensivelytoclimaticfactorsandareoftenusedinlandscape management and planning. © The Author(s) 2017.},

note = {16},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85024834488,

title = {The Use of Biological Indices for the Assessment of the River Quality (Ruda River, Poland)},

author = { A. Spyra and J. Kubicka and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85024834488&doi=10.1515%2feces-2017-0020&partnerID=40&md5=a1001272c3a67bb7833bcdc8c96fac96},

doi = {10.1515/eces-2017-0020},

issn = {18986196},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Ecological Chemistry and Engineering S},

volume = {24},

number = {2},

pages = {285-298},

publisher = {De Gruyter Open Ltd},

abstract = {Recognition of the deteriorating conditions of rivers worldwide has called for increased efforts to improve the ecological quality of impacted river systems. This is particularly important in areas that have suffered from a significant impact of human pressure on the ecological status of water. Field studies were conducted in the Ruda River in an area that had undergone anthropogenic disturbances. The objectives of our survey were to test the biological metrics based on benthic macroinvertebrates at four study sites. Spring and autumn surveys of benthic invertebrates indicated that based on the BMWP and BMWP(PL) indices, water quality was higher in comparison with the value of Multimetric index at all of the sites that were studied. Our results revealed that the water quality was higher at the study sites that are located above the dam reservoir based on both the chemical and biological parameters. This study also indicated that both spring and autumn constitute appropriate periods for carrying out monitoring studies. The values of multimeric index indicated the same water quality (except for site 1) in both sampling periods. Anthropogenic transformations of a riverbed influence the flora and fauna and affect the ecological status of rivers. © 2017 by Aneta Spyra.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84959090005,

title = {Assessing the diversity of the benthic oligochaete communities in urban and woodland ponds in an industrial landscape (Upper Silesia, southern Poland)},

author = { M. Krodkiewska and M. Strzelec and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84959090005&doi=10.1007%2fs11252-016-0545-1&partnerID=40&md5=e94ec6d1accdbc4470f789ac55cc78d7},

doi = {10.1007/s11252-016-0545-1},

issn = {10838155},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Urban Ecosystems},

volume = {19},

number = {3},

pages = {1197-1211},

publisher = {Springer New York LLC},

abstract = {Studies were carried out in two mining pond complexes in an industrial landscape. The first complex (consisting of six ponds) was located in an urban area and the second one (consisting of six ponds) in a woodland area. The aims of the study were to assess the diversity of benthic oligochaetes and to evaluate which environmental variables are most important in determining variations in the community structure in ponds of varying location. In total, 21 oligochaete species were recorded (7–11 in the urban ponds; 11–15 in the woodland ponds). Aulodrilus pluriseta, Aulodrilus japonicus and Ophidonais serpentina were only found in the woodland ponds, while Potamothrix bavaricus only occurred in the urban ponds. Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri, Limnodrilus claparedeanus, Chaetogaster diaphanus and Ophidonais serpentina dominated in the woodland ponds, whereas Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri, Limnodrilus claparedeanus, Potamothrix bavaricus and Tubifex tubifex prevailed in the urban ponds. The total density of oligochaetes was higher in the urban ponds thought the values of the diversity indices were higher in the woodland ponds. The local diversity of the ponds was high, while the among-site diversity made only a small contribution to the regional diversity. Nonetheless, a cluster analysis divided all of the ponds into two distinct groups depending on their location. CCA analysis showed that conductivity, pH, total hardness, alkalinity, the concentration of chlorides and the content of organic matter in the bottom sediments were most associated with the distribution of some oligochaete species among the ponds studied. © 2016, Springer Science+Business Media New York.},

note = {2},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85004091177,

title = {Further expansion of the invasive mussel Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) in Poland - establishment of a new locality and population features},

author = { A. Spyra and N. Jędraszewska and M. Strzelec and M. Krodkiewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85004091177&doi=10.1051%2fkmae%2f2016028&partnerID=40&md5=9dd14d09c748751616619ac4a31bab41},

doi = {10.1051/kmae/2016028},

issn = {19619502},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Knowledge and Management of Aquatic Ecosystems},

volume = {2016-January},

number = {417},

publisher = {EDP Sciences},

abstract = {The increasingly frequent appearance of invasive species of mussels is a common phenomenon nowadays. Their rapid expansion is a significant component of the global changes that pose a great ecological impact and a serious threat to the diversity of native fauna. This study documents new localities of occurrence of Sinanodonta woodiana in Poland. We also attempted to determine its density, biomass, morphometric features and age structure. We found that its presence is clearly related to temperature and that the current range of its occurrence in Poland mostly overlaps with the areas with the highest average annual temperatures. The study showed significant differences in mean density between the fishponds: on particular sites the density amounted to 9 individuals/m 2 and their biomass exceeded 3000 g/m 2. ANOVA revealed significant differences in the mean dimensions of the shells between the three fishponds related to their height and width. Seven-year-old individuals were the most numerous while one-, two-, five- and six-year-old specimens were the most numerous in pond 2. In our opinion, S. woodiana has created a permanent population that is probably able to breed. This is confirmed by the appearance of one-year-old individuals as well as the other younger age classes. © A. Spyra et al., Published by EDP Sciences 2016.},

note = {16},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84942924546,

title = {Substrate choice by the alien snail Ferrissia fragilis (Gastropoda: Planorbidae) in an industrial area: A case study in a forest pond (Southern Poland)},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84942924546&doi=10.1515%2fbiolog-2015-0126&partnerID=40&md5=7b7491dc63066d721c595ac2f8af680a},

doi = {10.1515/biolog-2015-0126},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Biologia (Poland)},

volume = {70},

number = {8},

pages = {1093-1101},

publisher = {De Gruyter Open Ltd},

abstract = {The aims of this study were to determine the substrate choice by the alien snail Ferrissia fragilis (Tryon; 1863) (Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia remains; Nuphar lutea floating leaves and leaf deposit) as well as the environmental factors that influence the occurrence of this species. From 9 (T. latifolia and P. australis) to 11 (leaf deposit) snail species occurred on each type of substrate. F. fragilis belonged to the eudominants on most of the substrate types. This species reached its highest average density on floating N. lutea leaves (271 ind. m-2) and the lowest was on P. australis (60 ind. m-2). It occurred in different periods during the snail collection: in the initial study period on the floating N. lutea leaves (May) and on P. australis in the final period of the study (September). In July, we found a few specimens in the postseptal form on T. latifolia remains. The results of RDA analysis confirm the association between F. fragilis and T. latifolia as well as with floating N. lutea leaves. F. fragilis occurs at sites that have a higher content of calcium and iron in the water. Alien species more increasingly appear in disturbed anthropogenic water-bodies. An important vector in the dispersion of F. fragilis was probably the water birds or the economic activities that are related with the use of this forest pond. Studies on the occurrence of alien species contribute important data on the activities that are taken to preserve the biodiversity of freshwater environments. © 2015 Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84930617634,

title = {The Influence of the Disturbed Continuity of the River and the Invasive Species—Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843), Gammarus tigrinus (Sexton, 1939) on Benthos Fauna: A Case Study on Urban Area in the River Ruda (Poland)},

author = { A. Spyra and J. Kubicka and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84930617634&doi=10.1007%2fs00267-015-0483-3&partnerID=40&md5=cf17853bf95decbbfbbc08339df80fc2},

doi = {10.1007/s00267-015-0483-3},

issn = {0364152X},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Environmental Management},

volume = {56},

number = {1},

pages = {233-244},

publisher = {Springer New York LLC},

abstract = {The progressive degradation of aquatic ecosystems and ecohydrological role of rivers is one of the most important global environmental issues. The loss of the ability of rivers to self-purify waters due to the disturbances of river continuity cause a lack of biological life in parts of rivers or even in an entire river. The appearance of alien species in degraded aquatic environments is an increasingly common phenomenon and constitutes one of the threats to biodiversity. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possible impact of alien species Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray; 1843) and Gammarus tigrinus (Sexton; 1939) on native invertebrates as well as the influence of environmental factors on the occurrence benthos fauna including also alien species. The study conducted in industrial area, in the River Ruda (Poland), showed that at the sites at which the occurrence of the two alien species was observed, the density of native benthos and diversity decreased significantly. CCA analysis showed that non-native species occurred in fast water velocity and that their presence was associated with high values of conductivity, hardness, and a high chloride content. The arrival of new species from other geographical areas is one of the factors that influences the species balance in native aquatic fauna. The number of alien species in freshwater ecosystems probably will increase in the future as new aliens are moved outside of their native ranges. © 2015, Springer Science+Business Media New York.},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84929613302,

title = {The Importance of the Mining Subsidence Reservoirs Located Along the Trans-Regional Highway in the Conservation of the Biodiversity of Freshwater Molluscs in Industrial Areas (Upper Silesia, Poland)},

author = { I. Lewin and A. Spyra and M. Krodkiewska and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84929613302&doi=10.1007%2fs11270-015-2445-z&partnerID=40&md5=fb1eff5c0ef463ea33249b779027d09b},

doi = {10.1007/s11270-015-2445-z},

issn = {00496979},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Water, Air, and Soil Pollution},

volume = {226},

number = {6},

publisher = {Kluwer Academic Publishers},

abstract = {The objectives of the survey were to analyse the structure of the mollusc communities in the mining subsidence reservoirs that were created as a result of land subsidence over exploited hard coal seams and to determine the most predictive environmental factors that influence the distribution of mollusc species. The reservoirs are located in urbanised and industrialised areas along the Trans-Regional Highway, which has a high volume of vehicular traffic. They all have the same sources of supply but differ in the physical and chemical parameters of the water. In total, 15 mollusc species were recorded including four bivalve species. Among them Anodonta cygnea is classified as Endangered according to the Polish Red Data Book of Animals and also as Near Threatened according to the European Red List of Non-marine Molluscs. Eleven of the 15 mollusc species are included on the European Red List of Non-marine Molluscs as Least Concern. Conductivity, pH and the concentration of calcium were the parameters most associated with the distribution of mollusc species. Canonical correspondence analysis showed that Potamopyrgus antipodarum, Radix balthica, Physella acuta, Gyraulus crista and Pisidium casertanum were associated with higher conductivity and lower pH values. A. cygnea, Anodonta anatina and Ferrissia fragilis were negatively influenced by these parameters of the water. The results of this survey showed that the mining subsidence reservoirs located in urbanised and industrialised areas provide refuges for rare and legally protected species and that they play an essential role in the dispersal of alien species as well. © 2015 The Author(s).},

note = {18},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84934283935,

title = {New data on the biology and habitat preferences of the oligochaete species Ripistes parasita (Annelida: Clitellata: Naididae): A case study in a temporary woodland pond},

author = { M. Krodkiewska and A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84934283935&doi=10.1515%2fbiolog-2015-0070&partnerID=40&md5=46724a404de81e995090b841b63b1195},

doi = {10.1515/biolog-2015-0070},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Biologia (Poland)},

volume = {70},

number = {5},

pages = {615-624},

publisher = {De Gruyter Open Ltd},

abstract = {Studies carried out in woodland ponds located in an industrial area of southern Poland revealed the occurrence of a large population of Ripistes parasita (Schmidt; 1847) in one of them. This is a naidid species that is not usually abundant in oligochaete communities. Its ecology and biology is poorly known and thus the aim of this study was to characterise the environmental conditions influencing the occurrence of R. parasita and to assess its population dynamics and life history pattern. R. parasita occurred in a pond with soft water and a low level of mineralisation, a pH ranging from 6.1 to 7.0, and a high content of nitrogen and phosphorus. During our investigation, considerable seasonal changes in the occurrence and population density were detected. Specimens of this species inhabited alder leaf deposits in winter and early spring while in summer and autumn they occupied in large number floating Nuphar lutea leaves. A stepwise regression analysis showed a relationship between the temperature and dissolved oxygen content in the water and the density of R. parasita. The R. parasita reproduced asexually by paratomy (between May and November). The mean doubling time (days) for the population was 22.4. Only a few individuals (less than 1% of the population) matured in September and October. © 2015 Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences.},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84903152028,

title = {Woodland ponds as an important habitat of hippeutis complanatus (linnaeus 1758) occurrence - Effect of environmental factors and habitat preferences},

author = { A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84903152028&doi=10.2478%2feko-2014-0011&partnerID=40&md5=b9b1120049f1efe427b7d7e0a847553e},

doi = {10.2478/eko-2014-0011},

issn = {1335342X},

year  = {2014},

date = {2014-01-01},

journal = {Ekologia Bratislava},

volume = {33},

number = {2},

pages = {101-105},

publisher = {Institute of Landscape Ecology of the Slovak Academy of Science},

abstract = {In industrial areas, woodland ponds are refuges of biological diversity. The impact of environmental factors such as the physico-chemical properties of water, organic matter content in bottom sediments and various types of substratum on the occurrence of Hippeutis complanatus were assessed. In Poland, it is considered to be a species with an established but unspecified risk, deserving the status of endangered species due to the decline of wetland environments. A Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed associations between the distribution patterns of freshwater snails species and the concentration of nitrates (NO3) and calcium (Ca) as well as pH and the organic matter content in the bottom sediments. Based on statistical relationships, results of study suggest that the kind of substratum (Typha latifolia remains; Phragmites australis remains; fallen leaves of waterside trees) has an impact on the occurrence of freshwater snails including Hippeutis complanatus for which the preferred substratum is the fallen leaves of waterside trees and sites with a high content of organic matter in bottom sediments. The study has shown that isolated water bodies located in forest complexes can be refuges for species that occur insmall numbers in other types of aquatic environments.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84896121069,

title = {Identifying factors linked to the occurrence of alien gastropods in isolated woodland water bodies},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84896121069&doi=10.1007%2fs00114-014-1153-7&partnerID=40&md5=920cac10d450de99cb37b0403413d4cf},

doi = {10.1007/s00114-014-1153-7},

issn = {00281042},

year  = {2014},

date = {2014-01-01},

journal = {Naturwissenschaften},

volume = {101},

number = {3},

pages = {229-239},

publisher = {Springer Verlag},

abstract = {Biological invasions are a significant component of human-caused global change and is widely regarded as one of the main threats to natural biodiversity. Isolated anthropogenic water bodies created in the areas that are deprived of natural freshwater habitats allow the survival and reproduction of alien species on newly settled sites. They are often small with water level fluctuations causing frequent environmental disturbances. The colonisation success may be the result of the rate of their degradation. The aims of the study were to determine the environmental conditions that affect the existence of alien species of gastropods in this type of aquatic environment and to examine whether the occurrence of non-native species affects the community structure of the native species. This study made it possible to group woodland ponds according to the occurrence of the three invasive species in snail communities and discuss the environmental conditions present in these pond types. Analysis of water properties emphasised the distinctiveness of the selected pond types. In ponds of the Potamopyrgus antipodarum type, we found the highest values of some parameters mainly hardness, conductivity, and content of calcium and chlorides, in contrast with the Physella acuta type, which were characterised by the lowest values except for phosphates and nitrites. In the Ferrissia fragilis type, we found the highest nitrate content. Data on the occurrence of alien species in different water environments play an important role in actions which are taken to prevent new invasions and spread of non-native species as well as to reduce future impacts of invaders. © 2014 The Author(s).},

note = {18},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84896734261,

title = {The significance of woodland ponds in the conservation of rare species: A case study of Placobdella costata (F. Müller) (Hirudinida: Glossiphoniidae)},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Krodkiewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84896734261&partnerID=40&md5=a46912fe63131408d82b7ca3efe9f22d},

issn = {15052249},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Polish Journal of Ecology},

volume = {61},

number = {3},

pages = {613-619},

abstract = {The water bodies formed in forest complexes are characterised by a significant degree of isolation from other aquatic environments as well as from urban agglomerations. In industrial areas, they are refuges of biological diversity. The long-term ecological research carried out in woodland ponds has allowed us to identify a new site of the occurrence of Placobdella costata (F. Müller) (Hirudinida: Glossiphoniidae) in Poland, the fourth in the southern part of the country. Furthermore, ecological information about the habitat and accompanying freshwater leeches are given.},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84878992465,

title = {Occurrence and morphological variability of Gyraulus crista (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Planorbidae) on different types of substratum in woodland ponds},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84878992465&doi=10.2478%2fs11756-013-0197-z&partnerID=40&md5=3774b8bada8d56a09d342f4651217c7a},

doi = {10.2478/s11756-013-0197-z},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Biologia (Poland)},

volume = {68},

number = {4},

pages = {679-686},

abstract = {Gyraulus crista is often a dominant component of lentic freshwater snail communities because it may occur in densities of hundreds of individuals/m2 across continents and in lentic water types. A study on the occurrence and conchological variability of the shell of G. crista was carried out on five different types of substrates in the anthropogenic woodland ponds at thirteen study sites. In order to answer the question of whether the existence of this species in different forms is affected by the quality of the inhabited substrates, various physico-chemical properties of the water, different bottom sediments and water level fluctuations, we examined the variation of forms across 5990 specimens of G. crista in woodland ponds. This research, which was supported by Redundancy Analysis (RDA), showed a highly significant association of G. c. spinulosus with leaf deposits and G. c. cristatus for T. latifolia remains. G. crista nautileus was mainly associated with T. latifolia and also with G. aquatica remains. They also showed no statistically significant relationship between the occurrence of particular conchological G. crista forms and different physico-chemical properties of water. © 2013 Versita Warsaw and Springer-Verlag Wien.},

note = {5},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84857274510,

title = {Characteristics of Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) Populations in Fish Ponds (Upper Silesia, Southern Poland) in Relation to Environmental Factors Abstract},

author = { A. Spyra and M. Strzelec and I. Lewin and M. Krodkiewska and A. Michalik-Kucharz and M. Gara},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857274510&doi=10.1002%2firoh.201111425&partnerID=40&md5=d53433804904e8cbd2e793a1558121a8},

doi = {10.1002/iroh.201111425},

issn = {14342944},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {International Review of Hydrobiology},

volume = {97},

number = {1},

pages = {12-25},

abstract = {We analyzed the biomass, density and age structure of S. woodiana populations in relation to different environmental factors at new sites of its occurrence in southern Poland. The highest recorded biomass was 4,413 g m -2. Mussel density was 19 individuals m -2. The age structure was formed by juveniles as well as by specimens more than 8 years. The rapid expansion of S. woodiana in European countries is believed to be the result of accidental introduction of fishes bearing glochidia of this species. © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.},

note = {18},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-79955980430,

title = {Autochthonic and allochthonic plant detritus as zoobenthos habitat in anthropogenic woodland ponds},

author = { A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79955980430&doi=10.2478%2fs13545-011-0004-9&partnerID=40&md5=e254555c7df04c52b08928d391c1cedb},

doi = {10.2478/s13545-011-0004-9},

issn = {1730413X},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies},

volume = {40},

number = {1},

pages = {27-35},

abstract = {Regardless of origin, all water bodies situated inside forests form a unique habitat for many freshwater animals due to the allochthonous detritus covering the bottom, composed mostly of leaves from waterside trees. For many years these woodland ponds have been considered to be advantageous to regional biodiversity. Investigations were carried out in eight anthropogenic woodland ponds, formed as a consequence of coal mining activities, situated in forest complexes in Upper Silesia (Southern Poland), to evaluate the impact of allochthonic and autochthonic plant detritus on the formation of zoobenthic communities, together with insolation intensity. In sites covered by a layer of allochthonic plant matter zoobenthos were more abundant compared to places covered by autochthonic detritus. The density of zoobenthos in sun-exposed sites was two to three times greater than in shaded sites. Copyright © of Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Poland.},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-77953637501,

title = {Environmental factors influencing the occurrence of freshwater snails in woodland water bodies},

author = { A. Spyra},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77953637501&doi=10.2478%2fs11756-010-0063-1&partnerID=40&md5=d9662e68c4e85ab48412c034735e75ec},

doi = {10.2478/s11756-010-0063-1},

issn = {00063088},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Biologia},

volume = {65},

number = {4},

pages = {697-703},

abstract = {Studies were carried out in eight woodland water bodies that are situated in an urbanised area of Southern Poland (Upper Silesia). The aim of this study was to determine the influence of auto- and allochthonous plant detritus and exposure to sunlight on the structure of snail communities in woodland ponds. Among some physico-chemical water parameters, pH influenced the occurrence of snails, whereas sunlight caused an increase in diversity of the snail communities. In the total snail collection, 72.1% of specimens were gathered in sun-exposed sites. By the same degree of insolation more preferred by snails were the sites with allochthonic detritus. The snail fauna of subsidence ponds located inside a forest area differs from those occurring in urban agglomerations. The most conspicuous difference is the high numbers in three woodland ponds of Hippeutis complanatus (L.), which is rare in this area. © 2010 Versita Warsaw and Springer-Verlag Wien.},

note = {14},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-34249790177,

title = {The species diversity of freshwater snails (Gastropoda) in differently managed fish ponds in South-Western Poland},

author = { A. Spyra and W. Serafiński and M. Strzelec},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-34249790177&partnerID=40&md5=72ef4d88b8b2b2204a1807d6f0b4a515},

issn = {1335342X},

year  = {2007},

date = {2007-01-01},

journal = {Ekologia Bratislava},

volume = {26},

number = {1},

pages = {83-89},

abstract = {The present study, based on data from one protected and one normally exploited complex of fishponds, illustrates the impact of fish farming on the diversity of snail communities in farm ponds. The periodical drying up and moving of plants and mud are the causes of the decrease in gastropod species number in exploited ponds in comparison to protected ones (5-7 vs. 12-16 species; respectively). Similarly the plant diversity is much lesser in unprotected ponds. Other environmental factors affect the snail communities to a lesser degree. Significant negative correlations exist between snail species number and total hardness and magnesium ion concentration in the water, as well as a positive correlation between snail species diversity and the number of plant species.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}