James Salzman and J. B. Ruhl
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- January 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195189650
- eISBN:
- 9780199783694
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195189650.003.0012
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This essay evaluates wetlands mitigation banking (WMB) as a tool for accomplishing the policy of no net loss of the nation's wetlands. The first part describes the legal and historical background to ...
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This essay evaluates wetlands mitigation banking (WMB) as a tool for accomplishing the policy of no net loss of the nation's wetlands. The first part describes the legal and historical background to wetlands mitigation banking, identifying the expected advantages and highlighting the practical difficulties. The discussion then focuses on the three main limitations of WMB design: ensuring meaningful compliance monitoring, currency adequacy, and exchange adequacy. These theoretical concerns are tested by looking at experiences to date in the field. Finally, key lessons for market-based approaches to watershed protection are drawn out.Less
This essay evaluates wetlands mitigation banking (WMB) as a tool for accomplishing the policy of no net loss of the nation's wetlands. The first part describes the legal and historical background to wetlands mitigation banking, identifying the expected advantages and highlighting the practical difficulties. The discussion then focuses on the three main limitations of WMB design: ensuring meaningful compliance monitoring, currency adequacy, and exchange adequacy. These theoretical concerns are tested by looking at experiences to date in the field. Finally, key lessons for market-based approaches to watershed protection are drawn out.
Charlotte L. Roehm
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198527084
- eISBN:
- 9780191713347
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198527084.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter reviews the current state of knowledge of respiration and emissions of carbon from freshwater wetlands to the atmosphere. Data are drawn from an array of studies addressing carbon ...
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This chapter reviews the current state of knowledge of respiration and emissions of carbon from freshwater wetlands to the atmosphere. Data are drawn from an array of studies addressing carbon dioxide and methane production and fluxes in wetland soils both in situ and in laboratory experiments. Regional estimates of wetland coverage are used to estimate the annual contribution of carbon dioxide-C and methane-C from each latitudinal zone and wetland type. The estimated mean rates of carbon dioxide and methane respiration from freshwater wetlands range between 0.1 and 0.6 mol C/m2-d and between 0.6 and 12 mmol C/m2-d, respectively. The mean rate for methane from rice paddies is 28 mmol C/m2-d. The global estimates for total carbon respired from freshwater wetlands are 966 Tmol/a from carbon dioxide and 23 Tmol/a from methane. The data suggest that wetland ecosystems are very sensitive to change, implying that these ecosystems may easily shift to becoming significant sources of carbon in the atmosphere.Less
This chapter reviews the current state of knowledge of respiration and emissions of carbon from freshwater wetlands to the atmosphere. Data are drawn from an array of studies addressing carbon dioxide and methane production and fluxes in wetland soils both in situ and in laboratory experiments. Regional estimates of wetland coverage are used to estimate the annual contribution of carbon dioxide-C and methane-C from each latitudinal zone and wetland type. The estimated mean rates of carbon dioxide and methane respiration from freshwater wetlands range between 0.1 and 0.6 mol C/m2-d and between 0.6 and 12 mmol C/m2-d, respectively. The mean rate for methane from rice paddies is 28 mmol C/m2-d. The global estimates for total carbon respired from freshwater wetlands are 966 Tmol/a from carbon dioxide and 23 Tmol/a from methane. The data suggest that wetland ecosystems are very sensitive to change, implying that these ecosystems may easily shift to becoming significant sources of carbon in the atmosphere.
Malcolm Ausden
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780198568728
- eISBN:
- 9780191717529
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198568728.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology
This chapter discusses the management of open bodies of water and wetlands on seasonally or permanently waterlogged soil. It concentrates on freshwater habitats, but briefly discusses management of ...
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This chapter discusses the management of open bodies of water and wetlands on seasonally or permanently waterlogged soil. It concentrates on freshwater habitats, but briefly discusses management of brackish habitats, such as coastal grazing marshes, where they form a continuum with freshwater ones. Topics covered include principles of manipulating water levels, water quality, methods of improving the value of deep water bodies (>1 m) and large, shallow (less than about 1 m) for wildlife; temporary pools, permanent ponds and water-filled ditches, rivers, swamps and fens, bogs, wet scrub, wet woodland, wet grasslands.Less
This chapter discusses the management of open bodies of water and wetlands on seasonally or permanently waterlogged soil. It concentrates on freshwater habitats, but briefly discusses management of brackish habitats, such as coastal grazing marshes, where they form a continuum with freshwater ones. Topics covered include principles of manipulating water levels, water quality, methods of improving the value of deep water bodies (>1 m) and large, shallow (less than about 1 m) for wildlife; temporary pools, permanent ponds and water-filled ditches, rivers, swamps and fens, bogs, wet scrub, wet woodland, wet grasslands.
Paul del Giorgio and Peter Williams (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198527084
- eISBN:
- 9780191713347
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198527084.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
Respiration represents the major area of ignorance in our understanding of the global carbon cycle. In spite of its obvious ecological and biogeochemical importance, most oceanographic and ...
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Respiration represents the major area of ignorance in our understanding of the global carbon cycle. In spite of its obvious ecological and biogeochemical importance, most oceanographic and limnological textbooks deal with respiration only superficially and as an extension of production and other processes. The objective of this book is to fill this gap and to provide a comprehensive review of respiration in the major aquatic systems of the biosphere. The introductory chapters review the general importance of respiration in aquatic systems, and deal with respiration within four key biological components of aquatic systems: bacteria, algae, heterotrophic protists, and zooplankton. The central chapters of the book review respiration in major aquatic ecosystems: freshwater wetlands, lakes and rivers, estuaries, coastal and open oceans, and pelagic ecosystems, as well as respiration in suboxic environments. For each major ecosystem, the corresponding chapter provides a synthesis of methods used to assess respiration, outlines the existing information and data on respiration, discusses its regulation and links to biotic and abiotic factors, and provides regional and global estimates of the magnitude of respiration. This is followed by a chapter on the modelling of respiration for various components of the plankton. The final chapter provides a general synthesis of the information and data provided throughout the book, and places aquatic respiration within the context of the global carbon budget.Less
Respiration represents the major area of ignorance in our understanding of the global carbon cycle. In spite of its obvious ecological and biogeochemical importance, most oceanographic and limnological textbooks deal with respiration only superficially and as an extension of production and other processes. The objective of this book is to fill this gap and to provide a comprehensive review of respiration in the major aquatic systems of the biosphere. The introductory chapters review the general importance of respiration in aquatic systems, and deal with respiration within four key biological components of aquatic systems: bacteria, algae, heterotrophic protists, and zooplankton. The central chapters of the book review respiration in major aquatic ecosystems: freshwater wetlands, lakes and rivers, estuaries, coastal and open oceans, and pelagic ecosystems, as well as respiration in suboxic environments. For each major ecosystem, the corresponding chapter provides a synthesis of methods used to assess respiration, outlines the existing information and data on respiration, discusses its regulation and links to biotic and abiotic factors, and provides regional and global estimates of the magnitude of respiration. This is followed by a chapter on the modelling of respiration for various components of the plankton. The final chapter provides a general synthesis of the information and data provided throughout the book, and places aquatic respiration within the context of the global carbon budget.
D. Dudley Williams
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198528128
- eISBN:
- 9780191713538
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528128.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
Temporary waters are found throughout the world, including intermittent streams and ponds, episodic rain puddles, seasonal limestone lakes, and the water-retaining structures of plants, such as ...
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Temporary waters are found throughout the world, including intermittent streams and ponds, episodic rain puddles, seasonal limestone lakes, and the water-retaining structures of plants, such as bromeliads and pitcher plants. They are populated by a variety of plant, animal, and microscopic communities ranging from the very simple to the highly complex. As such, they represent fascinating and significant arenas to study the properties of species, as the latter deals with the rigours of living in highly variable environments. Obligate temporary water species display a remarkable array of adaptations to the periodic loss of their primary medium that largely sets them apart from the inhabitants of permanent water bodies. The survival of individuals frequently depends upon exceptional physiological tolerance or effective migrational abilities that are timed to appropriate habitat phases. However, apart from their inherent biological interest, temporary waters are now in the limelight from a conservation perspective as these habitats come more and more into conflict with human activities. Traditionally, many temporary waters — be they ponds, pools, streams, or wetlands — have been considered as ‘wasted’ areas of land, potentially convertible to agriculture once drained. In reality, they are natural features of the global landscape representing distinct and unique habitats for many species — some that are found nowhere else, others that reach their maximum abundance there. Temporary waters are also very important from a human health perspective, since they function as breeding places for the vectors of many disease organisms.Less
Temporary waters are found throughout the world, including intermittent streams and ponds, episodic rain puddles, seasonal limestone lakes, and the water-retaining structures of plants, such as bromeliads and pitcher plants. They are populated by a variety of plant, animal, and microscopic communities ranging from the very simple to the highly complex. As such, they represent fascinating and significant arenas to study the properties of species, as the latter deals with the rigours of living in highly variable environments. Obligate temporary water species display a remarkable array of adaptations to the periodic loss of their primary medium that largely sets them apart from the inhabitants of permanent water bodies. The survival of individuals frequently depends upon exceptional physiological tolerance or effective migrational abilities that are timed to appropriate habitat phases. However, apart from their inherent biological interest, temporary waters are now in the limelight from a conservation perspective as these habitats come more and more into conflict with human activities. Traditionally, many temporary waters — be they ponds, pools, streams, or wetlands — have been considered as ‘wasted’ areas of land, potentially convertible to agriculture once drained. In reality, they are natural features of the global landscape representing distinct and unique habitats for many species — some that are found nowhere else, others that reach their maximum abundance there. Temporary waters are also very important from a human health perspective, since they function as breeding places for the vectors of many disease organisms.
David K. Skelly, Susan R. Bolden, Manja P. Holland, L. Kealoha Freidenburg, Nicole A. Freidenfelds, and Trent R. Malcolm
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198567080
- eISBN:
- 9780191717871
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198567080.003.0011
- Subject:
- Biology, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology
Amphibians depend on freshwater wetlands that have greatly been altered by urbanization. Increases in human density can be linked to changes in light and thermal environments, water chemistry, and ...
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Amphibians depend on freshwater wetlands that have greatly been altered by urbanization. Increases in human density can be linked to changes in light and thermal environments, water chemistry, and hydrology. These characteristic shifts provide a changing backdrop for the infection of amphibian hosts by macroparasites such as trematodes. Comparative and experimental approaches show how changes in the environmental context influence patterns of infection in wild amphibian populations. The patters of infection of amphibians collected from sixty wetlands located in underdeveloped, suburban, and urban environments are compared. Results show that the environmental context is a critical driver of infection patterns in wild amphibians, and that urbanization may alter the dynamics of disease in wildlife populations.Less
Amphibians depend on freshwater wetlands that have greatly been altered by urbanization. Increases in human density can be linked to changes in light and thermal environments, water chemistry, and hydrology. These characteristic shifts provide a changing backdrop for the infection of amphibian hosts by macroparasites such as trematodes. Comparative and experimental approaches show how changes in the environmental context influence patterns of infection in wild amphibian populations. The patters of infection of amphibians collected from sixty wetlands located in underdeveloped, suburban, and urban environments are compared. Results show that the environmental context is a critical driver of infection patterns in wild amphibians, and that urbanization may alter the dynamics of disease in wildlife populations.
Malcolm Ausden
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198520863
- eISBN:
- 9780191706189
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198520863.003.0014
- Subject:
- Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology
This chapter describes the principles and approaches used in the modification of habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and wetlands, to make them more suitable for species of interest. Sections ...
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This chapter describes the principles and approaches used in the modification of habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and wetlands, to make them more suitable for species of interest. Sections describe how to plan and monitor habitats, and the general principles are described. For a range of habitats, the key management interventions are described with the likely consequences.Less
This chapter describes the principles and approaches used in the modification of habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and wetlands, to make them more suitable for species of interest. Sections describe how to plan and monitor habitats, and the general principles are described. For a range of habitats, the key management interventions are described with the likely consequences.
D. Dudley Williams
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198528128
- eISBN:
- 9780191713538
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528128.003.0010
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter underlines the importance of temporary water habitats as repositories for rare species and genotypes, at a time when such wetland habitats are being destroyed or altered at a rapid rate. ...
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This chapter underlines the importance of temporary water habitats as repositories for rare species and genotypes, at a time when such wetland habitats are being destroyed or altered at a rapid rate. The problems encountered in trying to protect these habitats and their biodiversity are examined, particularly those associated with protective legislation. Existing management practices are evaluated.Less
This chapter underlines the importance of temporary water habitats as repositories for rare species and genotypes, at a time when such wetland habitats are being destroyed or altered at a rapid rate. The problems encountered in trying to protect these habitats and their biodiversity are examined, particularly those associated with protective legislation. Existing management practices are evaluated.
John A. Dixon and Padma N. Lal
- Published in print:
- 2000
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199240708
- eISBN:
- 9780191718106
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199240708.003.0006
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Coastal wetlands are complex and they tend to be very sensitive to changes in hydraulic conditions: natural and human-made. Such wetlands provide various ecological functions, including groundwater ...
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Coastal wetlands are complex and they tend to be very sensitive to changes in hydraulic conditions: natural and human-made. Such wetlands provide various ecological functions, including groundwater recharge, flood control, nutrient retention, and micro-climate stabilization. They are also a source of various products including water supply and fisheries. Despite these direct and indirect values, they are often subject to development pressures (i.e., converting the wetlands for other purposes such as land development), usually based on benefit cost analysis (BCA). The chapter argues that an extended benefit cost analysis that includes the external and environmental benefits is needed. Six case studies of valuation of services of mangroves are discussed, including those of Thailand, Fiji, and Indonesia. Based on these, it is argued that a combined economic-ecologic analysis is needed to analyse properly management and development options for coastal wetlands.Less
Coastal wetlands are complex and they tend to be very sensitive to changes in hydraulic conditions: natural and human-made. Such wetlands provide various ecological functions, including groundwater recharge, flood control, nutrient retention, and micro-climate stabilization. They are also a source of various products including water supply and fisheries. Despite these direct and indirect values, they are often subject to development pressures (i.e., converting the wetlands for other purposes such as land development), usually based on benefit cost analysis (BCA). The chapter argues that an extended benefit cost analysis that includes the external and environmental benefits is needed. Six case studies of valuation of services of mangroves are discussed, including those of Thailand, Fiji, and Indonesia. Based on these, it is argued that a combined economic-ecologic analysis is needed to analyse properly management and development options for coastal wetlands.
Michael Lannoo
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520255883
- eISBN:
- 9780520942530
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520255883.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
The widespread appearance of frogs with deformed bodies has generated much press coverage over the past decade. Frogs with extra limbs or digits, missing limbs or digits, or misaligned appendages ...
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The widespread appearance of frogs with deformed bodies has generated much press coverage over the past decade. Frogs with extra limbs or digits, missing limbs or digits, or misaligned appendages raise an alarming question: “Are deformed humans next?” Taking a fresh look at this disturbing environmental problem, this book provides a balanced overview of the science behind the malformed frog phenomenon. Bringing together data from ecology, parasitology, and other disciplines, the author considers the possible causes of these deformities, tells which frogs have been affected, and addresses questions about what these malformations might mean to human populations. Featuring high-quality radiographic images, the book suggests that our focus should be on finding practical solutions, a key component of which will be controlling chemical, nutrient, and pesticide runoff into wetlands.Less
The widespread appearance of frogs with deformed bodies has generated much press coverage over the past decade. Frogs with extra limbs or digits, missing limbs or digits, or misaligned appendages raise an alarming question: “Are deformed humans next?” Taking a fresh look at this disturbing environmental problem, this book provides a balanced overview of the science behind the malformed frog phenomenon. Bringing together data from ecology, parasitology, and other disciplines, the author considers the possible causes of these deformities, tells which frogs have been affected, and addresses questions about what these malformations might mean to human populations. Featuring high-quality radiographic images, the book suggests that our focus should be on finding practical solutions, a key component of which will be controlling chemical, nutrient, and pesticide runoff into wetlands.
Dietland Muller-Schwarze
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780801450105
- eISBN:
- 9780801460869
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9780801450105.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Behavior / Behavioral Ecology
Beavers can and do dramatically change the landscape. The beaver is a keystone species—their skills as foresters and engineers create and maintain ponds and wetlands that increase biodiversity, ...
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Beavers can and do dramatically change the landscape. The beaver is a keystone species—their skills as foresters and engineers create and maintain ponds and wetlands that increase biodiversity, purify water, and prevent large-scale flooding. Biologists have long studied their daily and seasonal routines, family structures, and dispersal patterns. As human development encroaches into formerly wild areas, property owners and government authorities need new, nonlethal strategies for dealing with so-called nuisance beavers. At the same time, the complex behavior of beavers intrigues visitors at parks and other wildlife viewing sites because it is relatively easy to observe. This book gathers a wealth of scientific knowledge about both the North American and Eurasian beaver species. It is designed to satisfy the curiosity and answer the questions of anyone with an interest in these animals.Less
Beavers can and do dramatically change the landscape. The beaver is a keystone species—their skills as foresters and engineers create and maintain ponds and wetlands that increase biodiversity, purify water, and prevent large-scale flooding. Biologists have long studied their daily and seasonal routines, family structures, and dispersal patterns. As human development encroaches into formerly wild areas, property owners and government authorities need new, nonlethal strategies for dealing with so-called nuisance beavers. At the same time, the complex behavior of beavers intrigues visitors at parks and other wildlife viewing sites because it is relatively easy to observe. This book gathers a wealth of scientific knowledge about both the North American and Eurasian beaver species. It is designed to satisfy the curiosity and answer the questions of anyone with an interest in these animals.
N. Scott Arnold
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195374964
- eISBN:
- 9780199871490
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195374964.003.0010
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Political Philosophy
This chapter articulates arguments for and against the regulatory regimes implicit in the Endangered Species Act (on endangered flora and fauna) and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (wetlands ...
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This chapter articulates arguments for and against the regulatory regimes implicit in the Endangered Species Act (on endangered flora and fauna) and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (wetlands regulation). It finds that the best arguments in favor of these regulatory regimes are public goods arguments, which were disposed of in Chapter 6. By contrast, there are good conversion arguments against both of these regulatory regimes.Less
This chapter articulates arguments for and against the regulatory regimes implicit in the Endangered Species Act (on endangered flora and fauna) and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (wetlands regulation). It finds that the best arguments in favor of these regulatory regimes are public goods arguments, which were disposed of in Chapter 6. By contrast, there are good conversion arguments against both of these regulatory regimes.
Randy K. Kolka and James A. Thompson
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247772
- eISBN:
- 9780520932890
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247772.003.0002
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Landscape geomorphology influences how water moves over or through the soil, and thus hillslope hydrology and local hydrologic budgets affect soil properties and determine the formation of wetland ...
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Landscape geomorphology influences how water moves over or through the soil, and thus hillslope hydrology and local hydrologic budgets affect soil properties and determine the formation of wetland soils. A complete understanding of wetland formation, wetland ecology, and wetland management requires a basic understanding of soils, including soil properties, soil processes, and soil variability. This chapter explores how soils and landscapes influence the local hydrologic cycle to lead to the development of wetland hydrology. It then looks at some fundamental soil properties, and how they lead to and respond to the development of wetland hydrology. Finally, the chapter considers specific types of wetland ecosystems and discusses their general distribution, origin, hydrology, soil, and vegetation.Less
Landscape geomorphology influences how water moves over or through the soil, and thus hillslope hydrology and local hydrologic budgets affect soil properties and determine the formation of wetland soils. A complete understanding of wetland formation, wetland ecology, and wetland management requires a basic understanding of soils, including soil properties, soil processes, and soil variability. This chapter explores how soils and landscapes influence the local hydrologic cycle to lead to the development of wetland hydrology. It then looks at some fundamental soil properties, and how they lead to and respond to the development of wetland hydrology. Finally, the chapter considers specific types of wetland ecosystems and discusses their general distribution, origin, hydrology, soil, and vegetation.
C. Rhett Jackson
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247772
- eISBN:
- 9780520932890
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247772.003.0003
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
The commonly used phrase “wetland hydrology” should be considered shorthand for hydrology, as it relates to wetlands. Hillslope hydrology is a subbranch of hydrology devoted to describing and ...
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The commonly used phrase “wetland hydrology” should be considered shorthand for hydrology, as it relates to wetlands. Hillslope hydrology is a subbranch of hydrology devoted to describing and explaining how water moves through the terrestrial landscape into surface waters. It encompasses interception, infiltration, Horton overland flow, interflow, percolation, evapotranspiration, groundwater flow, and variable source area runoff. The principles and processes of hydrology can be applied to uplands, wetlands, streams, lakes, and groundwater. This chapter presents basic principles of hydrology that can be applied to understand and explain annual, seasonal, and daily water level dynamics (the hydropattern or hydroperiod) of wetlands, and to illuminate physical and chemical water quality processes occurring in wetlands. The hydroperiod of a wetland is one of the dominant controls on wetland plant and animal communities, as well as on primary productivity and decomposition. Hydroperiod is a statistically ill-defined term that refers to the general seasonal pattern of surface inundation depth. Classification or description of wetlands by hydropattern has become a common framework from which to explore and explain wetland ecology.Less
The commonly used phrase “wetland hydrology” should be considered shorthand for hydrology, as it relates to wetlands. Hillslope hydrology is a subbranch of hydrology devoted to describing and explaining how water moves through the terrestrial landscape into surface waters. It encompasses interception, infiltration, Horton overland flow, interflow, percolation, evapotranspiration, groundwater flow, and variable source area runoff. The principles and processes of hydrology can be applied to uplands, wetlands, streams, lakes, and groundwater. This chapter presents basic principles of hydrology that can be applied to understand and explain annual, seasonal, and daily water level dynamics (the hydropattern or hydroperiod) of wetlands, and to illuminate physical and chemical water quality processes occurring in wetlands. The hydroperiod of a wetland is one of the dominant controls on wetland plant and animal communities, as well as on primary productivity and decomposition. Hydroperiod is a statistically ill-defined term that refers to the general seasonal pattern of surface inundation depth. Classification or description of wetlands by hydropattern has become a common framework from which to explore and explain wetland ecology.
Paul I. Boon
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520247772
- eISBN:
- 9780520932890
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520247772.003.0005
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Many studies fail to acknowledge that wetlands are by nature incredibly dynamic habitats in terms of hydrology, and that episodic wetting and drying has a profound influence on chemical reactions and ...
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Many studies fail to acknowledge that wetlands are by nature incredibly dynamic habitats in terms of hydrology, and that episodic wetting and drying has a profound influence on chemical reactions and microbial ecology. This chapter addresses hydrologic dynamism in wetlands. Hydrologically dynamic wetlands are those with water levels that fluctuate widely and, in the most severe cases, dry out completely. For most purposes, they might just as accurately be called temporary wetlands, and the two terms are used interchangeably throughout the chapter, which also discusses the biogeochemistry and bacterial ecology of hydrologically dynamic wetlands. It then links the biogeochemistry and bacterial ecology of temporary wetlands with a wetland's most important physical driving force: its hydrology. The chapter briefly introduces bacterial diversity and wetland hydrology before considering the ways in which hydrology controls biogeochemical processes, by referring to the processes of organic matter decay and nutrient regeneration and cycling in temporary wetlands. Finally, it shows how bacterial populations and communities interact with soils and aquatic plants in temporary wetlands.Less
Many studies fail to acknowledge that wetlands are by nature incredibly dynamic habitats in terms of hydrology, and that episodic wetting and drying has a profound influence on chemical reactions and microbial ecology. This chapter addresses hydrologic dynamism in wetlands. Hydrologically dynamic wetlands are those with water levels that fluctuate widely and, in the most severe cases, dry out completely. For most purposes, they might just as accurately be called temporary wetlands, and the two terms are used interchangeably throughout the chapter, which also discusses the biogeochemistry and bacterial ecology of hydrologically dynamic wetlands. It then links the biogeochemistry and bacterial ecology of temporary wetlands with a wetland's most important physical driving force: its hydrology. The chapter briefly introduces bacterial diversity and wetland hydrology before considering the ways in which hydrology controls biogeochemical processes, by referring to the processes of organic matter decay and nutrient regeneration and cycling in temporary wetlands. Finally, it shows how bacterial populations and communities interact with soils and aquatic plants in temporary wetlands.
Stephen C. Richter, Michelle Guidugli-Cook, and David R. Brown
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- January 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780813168685
- eISBN:
- 9780813169941
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University Press of Kentucky
- DOI:
- 10.5810/kentucky/9780813168685.003.0014
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter discusses characteristics of wetlands, where they are found, history of loss and degradation, and regulation and conservation of wetlands. Although wetlands have received much less ...
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This chapter discusses characteristics of wetlands, where they are found, history of loss and degradation, and regulation and conservation of wetlands. Although wetlands have received much less public attention and research than streams in Kentucky, they are equally important habitats because they perform ecosystem functions that are valuable to humans and wildlife alike. Functions include flood attenuation, filtration of pollutants and sediments, water storage and supply, and wildlife habitat, many of which have human values. The chapter closes with wetland protection successes and efforts to address shortcomings through development of wetland assessment techniques and improved wetland preservation and mitigation.Less
This chapter discusses characteristics of wetlands, where they are found, history of loss and degradation, and regulation and conservation of wetlands. Although wetlands have received much less public attention and research than streams in Kentucky, they are equally important habitats because they perform ecosystem functions that are valuable to humans and wildlife alike. Functions include flood attenuation, filtration of pollutants and sediments, water storage and supply, and wildlife habitat, many of which have human values. The chapter closes with wetland protection successes and efforts to address shortcomings through development of wetland assessment techniques and improved wetland preservation and mitigation.
Arnold G. van der Valk
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- December 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199608942
- eISBN:
- 9780191774805
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199608942.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
Global wetlands exhibit significant differences in both hydrology and species composition, and range from moss-dominated arctic peatlands to seasonally flooded tropical floodplains. They are ...
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Global wetlands exhibit significant differences in both hydrology and species composition, and range from moss-dominated arctic peatlands to seasonally flooded tropical floodplains. They are increasingly recognised for the important services that they provide to both the environment and human society such as wildlife and fish production, nutrient filtering, and carbon sequestration. A combination of low oxygen levels and dense plant canopies present particular challenges for organisms living in this aquatic habitat. This book discusses the universal environmental and biological features of wetland habitats, with an emphasis on wetland plants and animals and their adaptations. It also describes the functional features of wetlands — primary production, litter decomposition, food webs, and nutrient cycling — and their significance locally and globally. The future of wetlands is examined, including the potential threats of global climate change and invasive species, as well as their restoration and creation.Less
Global wetlands exhibit significant differences in both hydrology and species composition, and range from moss-dominated arctic peatlands to seasonally flooded tropical floodplains. They are increasingly recognised for the important services that they provide to both the environment and human society such as wildlife and fish production, nutrient filtering, and carbon sequestration. A combination of low oxygen levels and dense plant canopies present particular challenges for organisms living in this aquatic habitat. This book discusses the universal environmental and biological features of wetland habitats, with an emphasis on wetland plants and animals and their adaptations. It also describes the functional features of wetlands — primary production, litter decomposition, food webs, and nutrient cycling — and their significance locally and globally. The future of wetlands is examined, including the potential threats of global climate change and invasive species, as well as their restoration and creation.
Dietland Müller-Schwarze
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780801450105
- eISBN:
- 9780801460869
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9780801450105.003.0020
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Behavior / Behavioral Ecology
This chapter examines the potential role of the beaver in habitat restoration and other ecosystems services. As a tireless dam builder, the beaver can and should be an important ally in wetland ...
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This chapter examines the potential role of the beaver in habitat restoration and other ecosystems services. As a tireless dam builder, the beaver can and should be an important ally in wetland restoration. For thousands of years, beavers have created and maintained wetlands that stored water and kept the water table high. Their leaky dams evened out the flow of streams. Leaky dams provide an ideal compromise of “ecosystems services.” First, they control flooding better than solid concrete dams because of their gradual release of water. Second, they slow down the flow suffiently to allow time for cleansing the water. This chapter first considers the impact of beaver dams on stream restoration before discussing how the beaver can contribute to wetland conservation and restoration.Less
This chapter examines the potential role of the beaver in habitat restoration and other ecosystems services. As a tireless dam builder, the beaver can and should be an important ally in wetland restoration. For thousands of years, beavers have created and maintained wetlands that stored water and kept the water table high. Their leaky dams evened out the flow of streams. Leaky dams provide an ideal compromise of “ecosystems services.” First, they control flooding better than solid concrete dams because of their gradual release of water. Second, they slow down the flow suffiently to allow time for cleansing the water. This chapter first considers the impact of beaver dams on stream restoration before discussing how the beaver can contribute to wetland conservation and restoration.
Catherine Owen Koning and Sharon M. Ashworth
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- January 2020
- ISBN:
- 9780226554211
- eISBN:
- 9780226554495
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of Chicago Press
- DOI:
- 10.7208/chicago/9780226554495.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
Targeted towards a general audience, this book explains the science of wetland ecology through the real-world stories of those who wade into the muck. The book is organized by generalized wetland ...
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Targeted towards a general audience, this book explains the science of wetland ecology through the real-world stories of those who wade into the muck. The book is organized by generalized wetland types based on dominant vegetation, focusing on most of the major wetland types in North America with emphasis on the Midwest and Northeast United States. Freshwater marshes, wet meadows, beaver-dominated wetlands, bogs and fens, vernal pools, wet forests, and salt marshes are described. Tales of mighty efforts to protect rare turtles, restore salt marshes, and preserve sedge meadows become portals through which the reader visits major wetland types and discovers their secrets, while also learning critical ecological lessons. The reader learns that the flora, fauna and functions of all wetlands are determined by climate, hydrology, and soils. The major force that structures the ecological and evolutionary processes in wetlands is hydrology, which often creates low oxygen conditions. The book uncovers the mysteries of wetlands, including valuable “ecosystem services” they provide, such as pollutant removal, flood control, climate change mitigation, etc. The final chapter of the book is about the people who have devoted their lives to understanding and protecting wetlands. Over half of the wetlands in the lower forty-eight U.S. states have been drained, filled, or irrevocably altered, and their stories bring a deeper understanding of how humans come to understand and reverse the negative impacts of human development on wetland ecosystems.Less
Targeted towards a general audience, this book explains the science of wetland ecology through the real-world stories of those who wade into the muck. The book is organized by generalized wetland types based on dominant vegetation, focusing on most of the major wetland types in North America with emphasis on the Midwest and Northeast United States. Freshwater marshes, wet meadows, beaver-dominated wetlands, bogs and fens, vernal pools, wet forests, and salt marshes are described. Tales of mighty efforts to protect rare turtles, restore salt marshes, and preserve sedge meadows become portals through which the reader visits major wetland types and discovers their secrets, while also learning critical ecological lessons. The reader learns that the flora, fauna and functions of all wetlands are determined by climate, hydrology, and soils. The major force that structures the ecological and evolutionary processes in wetlands is hydrology, which often creates low oxygen conditions. The book uncovers the mysteries of wetlands, including valuable “ecosystem services” they provide, such as pollutant removal, flood control, climate change mitigation, etc. The final chapter of the book is about the people who have devoted their lives to understanding and protecting wetlands. Over half of the wetlands in the lower forty-eight U.S. states have been drained, filled, or irrevocably altered, and their stories bring a deeper understanding of how humans come to understand and reverse the negative impacts of human development on wetland ecosystems.
Hakan Rydin and John K Jeglum
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198528722
- eISBN:
- 9780191728211
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528722.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
Peatlands form intriguing landscape elements in large parts of the world and play important roles for biodiversity and for the atmospheric carbon balance. The Biology of Peatlands begins with an ...
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Peatlands form intriguing landscape elements in large parts of the world and play important roles for biodiversity and for the atmospheric carbon balance. The Biology of Peatlands begins with an overview of the main peatland types (marsh, swamp, fen, and bog), which provides the basis for a deeper understanding of the diversity of the entire range of biota present (microbes, invertebrates, plants, and vertebrates), together with their specific adaptations to peatland habitats. Detailed coverage is devoted to the moss genus Sphagnum, the most important functional plant group in northern peatlands. Throughout the book, the interactions between organisms and environmental conditions (especially wetness, availability of oxygen, and pH) are stressed, and key factors and processes including hydrology, nutrient cycling, light, and temperature are dealt with. Peatlands are archives of past vegetation and climate, and the authors describe the intriguing patterns and landforms characteristic of peatlands in different parts of the world, together with theories on how they have developed over centuries and millennia. The role of peatlands as sources or sinks for atmospheric carbon dioxide and methane, and their influence on climatic change, are also outlined. A final chapter considers peatland management, conservation, and restoration. The text is suitable for students and researchers of peatlands as well as the professional ecologists and conservation biologists.Less
Peatlands form intriguing landscape elements in large parts of the world and play important roles for biodiversity and for the atmospheric carbon balance. The Biology of Peatlands begins with an overview of the main peatland types (marsh, swamp, fen, and bog), which provides the basis for a deeper understanding of the diversity of the entire range of biota present (microbes, invertebrates, plants, and vertebrates), together with their specific adaptations to peatland habitats. Detailed coverage is devoted to the moss genus Sphagnum, the most important functional plant group in northern peatlands. Throughout the book, the interactions between organisms and environmental conditions (especially wetness, availability of oxygen, and pH) are stressed, and key factors and processes including hydrology, nutrient cycling, light, and temperature are dealt with. Peatlands are archives of past vegetation and climate, and the authors describe the intriguing patterns and landforms characteristic of peatlands in different parts of the world, together with theories on how they have developed over centuries and millennia. The role of peatlands as sources or sinks for atmospheric carbon dioxide and methane, and their influence on climatic change, are also outlined. A final chapter considers peatland management, conservation, and restoration. The text is suitable for students and researchers of peatlands as well as the professional ecologists and conservation biologists.
