Fine-scale spatial connectivity interacts with seasonality to shape macroinvertebrate assemblages in a restored pondscape

Temporary freshwater ponds are key stepping-stone habitats within landscapes that facilitate species dispersal and sustain biodiversity. We assessed environmental factors influencing aquatic macroinvertebrate patterns at a fine spatial scale in the restored quarry ponds of Charcas de los Camorchos (Madrid, Spain). Across 3 seasons, we sampled 1 permanent pond and 6 Mediterranean temporary ponds, representing nearly the entire pondscape. We estimated the relative abundances of macroinvertebrates and characterised pond abiotic factors (physical and chemical parameters), biotic factors (chlorophyll a concentrations, aquatic plant species richness), and spatial connectivity. Our results indicated that seasonality and maximum depth, correlated with pond water permanence, were the main drivers of macroinvertebrate assemblages. In particular, we detected that passive dispersers responded to fine-scale spatial connectivity while active dispersers seemed unaffected by environmental constraints. We observed that pond spatial connectivity was essential in maintaining seasonal patterns in macroinvertebrate assemblages across this pondscape, with the permanent pond playing a crucial “reset” role within the dynamic source–sink system. The study area is a site of significant ecological importance; we identified 79 macroinvertebrate taxa and 12 aquatic plant species, including some rare and endemic taxa. These insights can guide conservation strategies, highlighting the need to preserve entire pondscapes to protect biodiversity from anthropogenic pressures.