Aquatic ecology is the study of various interactions of flora, fauna and ecological characteristics in an aquatic environment. It comprises the study of marine as well as freshwater ecosystems. The physical characteristics of aquatic habitats affect the types of organisms found there. Living organisms in a particular environment are directly affected by environmental characteristics such as nutrient concentrations, temperature, water flow, and shelter. Only the organisms that are able to survive in the conditions of a particular habitat and use the resources available there will thrive. Interactions between living organisms also affect the type of organisms found in an aquatic ecosystem, as competition for resources (e.g., food, habitat) and predation affects species abundance and diversity. In turn, the living organisms in an environment can influence some aspects of their environment (e.g., beaver dams can change water flows). Organisms living in aquatic ecosystems are dependent on the resources of their environment. Biological communities—including the types of animals present and their relative abundance—are also shaped through the interactions with other organisms. Understanding the basic components of aquatic ecosystems and the interaction among living organisms and their environment can lead to better management of human impacts on these systems. Aquatic ecosystems support a substantial source of the earth’s biological diversity. They are an essential reservoir and share an enormous proportion of earth’s biological productivity.
Both aquatic resources and its biodiversity are interrelated to each other and they perform a myriad of functions and are valuable and essential for the sustainability of biotic communities. Aquatic biodiversity in both freshwater and marine environments are under continuous decline because of overexploitation of species, introduced exotic plant or animal, pollution sources from cities, industries and agricultural zones, loss and changes in ecological niche. Their conservation and management in the form of bio reserve points and bioregional management and worldwide monitoring are needed for the protection of the aquatic biodiversity. This book presents complex subject of aquatic ecology in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. It aims to present researches that have transformed this discipline and added its advancement. This book on aquatic ecology and biodiversity consist of topics dealing with preservation of ecologically significant areas, damage caused due to natural calamities and fishing activities, etc. The book would prove fruitful for researchers and students in the area of sustainable agriculture, natural habitat management and wildlife habitats.
Yolonda Huber received her M.Sc. in Freshwater and Marine Ecology from Science University, Delft. She is a Research Scholar in Marine Biology and Aquaculture based at Cardiff. Her areas of interest are freshwater usage and habitat loss. She holds prominent memberships of international ecological associations and has been an active participant at international conferences and forums. Huber has excelled in her professional life, and also working for the progress of the scientific community. She has actively contributed various articles & journals focused on aquatic ecosystems, commercial fishing, etc.
