Online first articles

The Mediterranean streams of semi-arid regions represent unique ecosystems, harboring a distinctive biodiversity adapted to variable environmental conditions. However, they are increasingly subjected to intense anthropogenic and climatic pressures, making it essential to assess their ecological status for conservation purposes. In this study, we analyse the spatial and temporal variability of the ecological status of the main water body of the Quípar stream (southeastern Iberian Peninsula), designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the Natura 2000 network. To this end, we examined data from field surveys conducted at seven sites along the stream, as well as historical IBMWP index records (2006–2023) from one of these sites. While results did not reveal a significant spatial trend, high variability in ecological quality was detected within this water body. While some sites were classified as being in good condition the majority were categorized as “moderate”. No significant temporal trend of improvement or degradation was identified, although notable annual fluctuations were observed. These results likely reflect a balance between conservation actions and improvements in wastewater treatment versus the negative impact of increasing intensive agriculture in the watershed. This study highlights the importance of conducting an ecological status assessment representative of heterogeneous water bodies. Thus, expanding the spatial coverage of monitoring efforts is recommended. Our findings underscore the need for management strategies tailored to the specific characteristics of semi-arid Mediterranean rivers, with a particular focus on restoring sections of lower ecological quality, mainly through regulating intensive agriculture.