Beaver dam construction enhances biodiversity in Swiss streams

A study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology indicates that beavers are significantly enhancing biodiversity within Swiss streams, even in areas heavily impacted by farming and urbanization. By building dams from branches and mud, these animals alter water flow, trap sediment, and create wetland habitats.

Researchers observed 16 different streams and found that beaver activity generally benefited amphibians, dragonflies, aquatic plants, and plankton, leading to higher species numbers and abundance. While the impact on fish and terrestrial plant richness varied, the overall effect on the landscape's biodiversity was positive.