Finding significant and insightful relationships between biotic and abiotic factors in Atlantic river corridors (Eo fluvial basin, Spain)

Abstract

River corridors are subject to numerous pressures such as invasive species, plant diseases, intensification of uses, artificial structures and activities, etc. These pressures affect their functions as reservoirs of diversity of flora and fauna species, flood peak damping, hydrological cycle regulators and ecosystem service providers. Edaphological, geomorphological and vegetation characteristics have been mapped for an initial diagnosis of the conservation status in several rivers in the NW of Iberian Peninsula. We examine the correlation among more than 40 biotic and abiotic factors in order to study their effects on restoration activities and improve the integral management of river corridors.