Data from: Seasonal differences in fish community structure in the upper Yangtze river based on eDNA metabarcoding: A multi-dimensional analysis

This study used environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to monitor
fish communities at 14 sites along the upper Yangtze River across four
seasons, aiming to understand seasonal variations in community structure.
This study reflects on the current status of fish community structure in
the region by leveraging an analytical discussion on the composition of
fish species and functional groups, the application of 16 multidimensional
diversity indices, and the relationships between fish communities and
environmental variables. A total of 120 fish species were detected. The
communities predominantly consisted of species that produce sticky eggs,
are sedentary, and have omnivorous diets. However, the relative abundance
of species producing drifting eggs, migratory, and carnivore fish groups
was higher in autumn and winter compared to spring and summer. Except for
the functional evenness index (FEve), all other functional diversity
indices, as well as α diversity, taxonomic diversity, and phylogenetic
diversity indices, were higher in spring and summer compared to autumn and
winter. This suggests that fish diversity is greater in spring and summer;
however, ecological niche overlap is more pronounced during these seasons.
Multiple diversity indices demonstrated a high degree of correlation among
them. This study provides practical experience for fish monitoring based
on eDNA metabarcoding technology.