Issue: Response of biota - Stream metabolism
This is an issue under the Inland waters theme of the Data Reporting System.
Why we need to know about this issue
Benthic metabolism refers to the rates of gross primary production (GPP) and community respiration (CR) occurring at, and just below, the sediment-water interface in streams. Measurement of these rates indicates the vigour of the basic carbon cycling processes in aquatic ecosystems — the fundamental base of the aquatic food web.
Rates of GPP and CR are dependent on light, nutrient concentrations and stream substrate, which are related to land use, extent of riparian vegetation and, soil type and stream geomorphology.
Indicators
- IW-40 Benthic metabolism case studies
Benthic metabolism refers to the rates of gross primary production (GPP) and community respiration (CR) occurring at, and just below, the sediment-water interface in streams. Measurement of these rates indicates the vigour of the basic carbon cycling processes in aquatic ecosystems - the fundamental base of the aquatic food web, and is therefore an important indicator for the stream metabolism as a whole.
Related issues
- Inland Waters - Catchment scale influences- Land and vegetation condition- Nutrients and sediments - sources and loads
- Inland Waters - Response of biota- Bacteria and algae
- Inland Waters - Habitat scale influences- Riparian vegetation
Key
Links to another web site
Links to data in the DRS
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