Use of the condition of Mediterranean barbel (Barbus meridionalis) to assess habitat quality in stream ecosystems

Weight-length relationships were used as a simple method to test difference s in condition between several populations of Mediterranean barbel and to e xamine possible correlations between fish condition and ecological factors. We analysed 14 populations of Mediterranean barbel from two basins with di fferent ecological conditions. Statistical analysis (ANCOVA) showed that th ere were significant differences (P<0.05) in condition between populations, which could imply differences in habitat characteristics. Oxygen availabil ity and riparian cover seem to be the main ecological factors affecting the condition of this species in the area studied. Therefore, the condition of the Mediterranean barbel may be a good indicator of habitat quality in str eam ecosystems.