Copepod community structure after a mining dam disaster in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean

This study aimed to investigate the potential effects of iron ore tailings from the Funda?o dam (southeastern Brazil) through suspended particulate matter (SPM) on the copepod community in the marine area adjacent to the Doce River mouth (DRM), and to characterize the community related to the oceanographic structure in 2016. Diversity was considered low and very low (min H ? = 0.36; max H? = 2.09) throughout the study period. The results showed a negative correlation between the community and higher concentrations of SPM with Temora turbinata and Centropages velificatus being the indicator species for this scenario. Water masses were the main constituting factor in the community structure where SACW was responsible for the increase in ecological indexes in addition to the dominance of Temora stylifera and Paracalanus quasimodo. The low rates of diversity and abundance recorded point to chronic effects associated with tailings which are enhanced in the absence of SACW.

Automated summary

This study investigated the potential effects of iron ore tailings on the copepod community in the marine area adjacent to the Doce River mouth, with a focus on suspended particulate matter (SPM). The results showed a negative correlation between community composition and higher SPM concentrations, with specific indicator species identified. Water masses were found to be the main factor influencing community structure, with specific species dominating under certain conditions.