Description
This module provides a thorough grounding in river ecology at the species, population and community levels.
Some of the unifying concepts of freshwater ecology, including the river continuum concept and nutrient spiralling, will be detailed.
Anthropogenic activities, including water abstraction, organic pollution and acidification, will be explored in relation to their effect on the biodiversity and functioning of riverine ecosystems.
The role of biomonitoring in riverine management will be explained, as will the various strategies applied to effect restoration of ecologically impaired surface waters.
Assessment
- Coursework (essay and oral presentation)
- Written examination