Database of immature stage traits of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) genera for the Amazon

Aquatic insects of the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) have a wide distribution and play an important ecological role in aquatic ecosystems, primarily in nutrient cycling in lotic systems. They also exhibit high morphological and functional diversity. Although there are numerous studies evaluating the morphological and functional diversity of EPT, this knowledge is fragmented and dispersed in the literature. It is important to synthesize this information, especially in regions with high diversity like, the Amazon. This synthesis of morphological, ecological, and life history traits of EPT genera occurring in the Amazon can contribute to advancing our understanding of the functioning of freshwater ecosystems in the region and the management of their watersheds. The objective of this study was to compile information into a database of functional traits of EPT immatures stage with documented distribution in the Brazilian Amazon. The database of this study recorded information on eight morphological, ecological, and life history traits of 95 EPT genera. We also identified knowledge gaps of these traits for genera with few occurrence records (rarer records). The information from the EPT traits database can be used to address fundamental research questions in ecology regarding the functioning of freshwater ecosystems.