Regression analysis of linear body dimensions vs. dry mass in stream macroinvertebrates

The regression equations for predicting dry mass from linear body dimensions presented in this study allow to calculate biomass of benthic macroinvertebrates from mountain streams of Central Europe. For the description of length-dry mass relationships, the power function y = a . x b or in a few cases the quadratic function y = a + b . x + + c . x 2 proved to be the best models. The relationships between linear body dimensions - e.g. body length (BL) vs. head capsule width (HW) - followed a simple linear model of the type y = a x + b or again a quadratic one. Data of literature imply that the relationships derived from this study should be restricted to carbonate streams.