View article

This chapter introduces and synthesizes food web dynamics within tropical and subtropical wetlands, considering a range of organisms at different trophic levels, hydrological characteristics, and wetland types. The relationship between hydroperiod and trophic dynamics is appraised considering both endorheic wetlands and those periodically connected to permanent waters. Furthermore, the diversities of ecological roles and trophic groups, including primary producers, detritivores and consumers, are discussed. These roles are exemplified using study systems such as austral temporary wetlands in southern Africa and the Everglades wetlands in the United States. Last, analytical approaches to quantify, model and understand trophic dynamics in the context of tropical and subtropical wetlands are discussed, including functional response, resource preferences and stable isotopes. Knowledge gaps are highlighted …