Abiotic variables in littoral-limnetic gradient of an Oxbow lake of Mogi-Guacu River floodplain, southeastern, Brazil

The present study aimed to analyse the abiotic characteristics spatial variabilitly in the littoral-limnetic gradient of the Diogo Pond, Mogi-Guacu River floodplain, as well as evaluating the hydrological influence on the spatial gradient. During the hydrological cycle, four field trips (high water, flood, low water and drought) were carried out at three sampling stations: littoral, interface, and limnetic region. Analysis of physical and chemical variables allowed to conclude that the time scale established by the hydrological level was the main forcing function over the limnological variability of the Diogo Pond. The relative spatial scale related to littoral-limnetic gradient contributed secondarily; to the abiotic variability. Littoral was characterized as a distinct compartment from the other stations during the entire hydrological cycle.