ALBERT

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 4 August 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Małgorzata Czatzkowska, Monika Harnisz, Edyta Kiedrzyńska, Marcin Kiedrzyński, Izabela Koniuszewska, Ewa Korzeniewska, Sebastian Szklarek, Maciej Zalewski〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Antibiotic resistance poses a significant health risk for humans and animals. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are among the key sources of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the natural environment. The aim of this study was to analyze the occurrence and seasonal variations of ARGs in treated wastewater flowing to the Pilica River or its tributaries. Samples of treated effluents were collected from 17 WWTPs assigned into three groups based on their population equivalent (PE): 〈2000, 2000–9999 and 15,000–99,999. Samples were collected four times at two-month intervals between November 2017 and July 2018. The occurrence of the 16S rRNA gene, class 1 integrase (〈em〉int〈/em〉l1) gene and genes encoding resistance to beta-lactams (〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉TEM〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉OXA〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉SHV〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉CTX-M〈/sub〉), tetracyclines (〈em〉tet〈/em〉A, 〈em〉tet〈/em〉B, 〈em〉tet〈/em〉C, 〈em〉tet〈/em〉D, 〈em〉tet〈/em〉E), fluoroquinolones (〈em〉aac(6′)-Ib-cr〈/em〉), macrolide, lincosamide and streptogramin (MLS) antibiotics (〈em〉ermF〈/em〉, 〈em〉linA〈/em〉) and sulfonamides (〈em〉sul〈/em〉1) was determined by standard PCR. All of the analyzed ARGs, excluding bla〈sub〉SHV〈/sub〉, were detected in treated wastewater. The prevalence of ARGs was more frequently in spring and rarelier in summer. Antibiotic resistance genes were most frequently detected in treated wastewater flows out from small WWTPs (class I, PE 〈2000).〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 9 August 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Borislava Gyosheva, Roumen Kalchev, Mihaela Beshkova, Vladimir Valchev〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The composition and structure of macrophyte assemblages in different water bodies from Bulgarian Danube River catchment area for a period of three years were studied. Main environmental variables: water depth and transparency, substrate type, nutrients (ammonium, nitrate, nitrite and total nitrogen, phosphate and total phosphorus) were simultaneously measured. Our aim was to investigate the spatial and temporal variability of macrophyte composition on the taxonomical (species) and functional (life forms) level in relation to environmental factors by means of multivariate analyses (PCA, CCA and RDA). The Bray-Curtis index was also used to investigate species similarities within and between different kinds of water bodies. Hydromorphology and connectivity were the main factors explaining the spatial variations of both species and life forms. The phosphate phosphorus, total nitrogen and temperature were the variables explaining temporal variation of species.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 17 August 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Aleksandra Jaskulska, Joanna Mankiewicz-Boczek〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The cyanobacteria constitute a diverse group of prokaryotic organisms widespread in aquatic ecosystems. The genus 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉 comprises freshwater cyanobacteria, which represent a possible cause for concern due to the possibility of its excessive growth and potential for toxin production following intensive eutrophication and climate changes. Factor that can potentially affect the biology, ecology and the evolution of cyanobacteria is the cyanophage. Being a group of planktonic viruses, cyanophages have been studied since the 1960s; however, information on viruses specific to cyanobacteria from the genus 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉 was first obtained in the 1970s. The aim of this review is to summarisze the current state of knowledge regarding cyanophages specific to 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉, their morphological characteristics, molecular biology, and populations dynamics in the natural environment of eastern Asia and Central Europe. Eight strains of cyanophages capable of lysing 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉 sp. cells have been identified from the 〈em〉Myoviridae〈/em〉, 〈em〉Podoviridae〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Siphoviridae〈/em〉 families, as well as Corticovirus-like particles. Available literature data indicates that the gene encoding the sheath protein of the contractile tail (〈em〉g91〈/em〉) is a good molecular marker for tracing 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉 viruses from 〈em〉Myoviridae〈/em〉 as a form of environmental analysis. It has been suggested that in natural ecosystems, this group of cyanophages can cause a shift in the host population from predominant ‘cyanophage infection sensitive’ to ‘cyanophage infection insensitive’ cells, rather than influencing the total number of 〈em〉Microcystis〈/em〉 sp. It was found that nucleotide sequence of the 〈em〉g91〈/em〉 gene fragment isolated from Central Europe was 95% similar to that of its counterparts from eastern Asia.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 15 August 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): D.J. Chaparro-Herrera, S. Nandini, S.S.S. Sarma〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉We tested the effects of turbidity on the prey consumption by larvae of an endemic predator (〈em〉Ambystoma mexicanum〈/em〉) and an introduced predator (〈em〉Oreochromis niloticus〈/em〉). Prey visibility is influenced by turbidity due to organic (algae, detritus) or inorganic (sediment) matter. We hypothesized that the axolotl would be more adversely influenced by high turbidity as compared to Tilapia, resulting in a decrease in the population of the former under natural conditions. In order to test this, we conducted prey preference experiments and tested the reactive distance of both predators at different turbidity levels. Prey species used were the cladocerans 〈em〉Alona glabra, Moina macrocopa, Macrothrix triserialis〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Simocephalus vetulus〈/em〉 and the ostracod 〈em〉Heterocypris incongruens〈/em〉. In both, clear and turbid waters, the fish consumed about 17.5% and 2.5%, respectively, more prey. The axolotl had a greater preference for 〈em〉H. incongruens〈/em〉 and 〈em〉M. triserialis〈/em〉, and the fish for 〈em〉S. vetulus〈/em〉 and 〈em〉M. triserialis〈/em〉. These results indicate that turbidity decreases the visual ability during the larval stages of 〈em〉A. mexicanum〈/em〉 which in turn influences its capacity to compete against the invasive fish. Implications of these results on the conservation efforts for the highly endangered 〈em〉Ambystoma mexicanum〈/em〉 are discussed.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 29 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): De-bao Tan, Teng-fei Luo, Deng-zhong Zhao, Chong Li〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In recent years, researchers have given an increasing amount of attention to carbon matter interception and greenhouse gas emissions from large hydropower reservoirs. The Geheyan Reservoir was selected as a typical canyon case to carry out continuous measurements of greenhouse gas fluxes from March 2015 to February 2016. Carbon dioxide (CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) fluxes from the interface between the water and atmosphere were identified at the following sites: above the dam, upstream, in a tributary, in the drawdown area, and in a bay within the reservoir. Results indicated that average CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 fluxes in Geheyan Reservoir were 55.69 + 66.33 mg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉. Carbon dioxide emissions were lower in spring and summer when the water level frequently varied for flood control. In addition, CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 fluxes were higher when water flowed slowly with relatively high water levels that remained stable continuously. On a spatial scale, CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions were lower in the drawdown area of the tributary and below the dam, while higher CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions occurred in the typical bay area where water velocity was very slow. Therefore, it can be concluded that a longer residence time and slower water velocity caused generally higher CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions from Geheyan Reservoir. The seasonal change of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 fluxes in the Yuxiakou backwater-area monitoring point was very stable no matter how the water level changed, but was higher than below the dam and in the drawdown area in most months. Temporal and spatial patterns of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 fluxes were significantly controlled by water temperature among all environmental variables for Geheyan Reservoir.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Wolfgang J. Junk, Maria Teresa F. Piedade, Catia Nunes da Cunha, Florian Wittmann, Jochen Schöngart〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Large floodplains are complex ecosystems at the land–water boundary. Because of rainy and dry seasons, most tropical floodplains are subjected to annual water-level fluctuations. During typical low-water periods, extensive areas of the floodplains are dry. However, relatively small geomorphological differences within the boundaries of the floodplains result in comparatively large differences in the length and depth of inundation and, in turn, the establishment of distinct plant communities, called macrohabitats. The specific ecological conditions of these macrohabitats have to be taken into consideration in the development of sustainable management methods and protection measures. Extreme floods and droughts have very strong effects on flora and fauna. The low hydrological buffer capacity of floodplains makes them vulnerable to anthropogenic changes in hydrology and to the impacts of global climate change. This study presents a macrohabitat classification system that has been applied to three large Brazilian floodplains: the forested Amazonian várzeas and igapós, and the savanna floodplains of the upper Paraguai River (Pantanal of Mato Grosso). Examples are provided to demonstrate the applicability of this system in comparative inter- and intra-wetland studies and therefore its utility in assessing environmental changes, including those arising from global climate change. Our approach can also be used to guide the implementation of sustainable management methods and as a focal point for the development of environmental legislation.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 12 September 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Ye Gao, Yong-hong Xie, Dong-sheng Zou〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Extent, frequency and duration of lake water level fluctuations (WLF) are dominant forces controlling the functioning of lake ecosystems, especially in the lake's littoral and aquatic-terrestrial interface processes. In East Dongting Lake, 〈em〉Carex〈/em〉 life history synchronize the arrival of overwintering birds, 〈em〉Carex〈/em〉 meadow provide vital wintering ground for migratory waterbirds, especially for the Lesser White-fronted Geese. However, significant changes had taken place in the hydrological regime of East Dongting Lake and our research showed it caused chiefly by sediment deposition in the lake basin and the replenishment of the Three Gorges Dam. The annual lowest water level of the East Dongting Lake had gradually risen and the annual water level amplitude had decreased obviously over the past 60 years. Since the operation of the Three Gorges Dam, the average water level increased significantly from January to June. The Three Gorges Dam holder the incoming water from late September to late October that the status will change from flood control limited water level to normal water level, meanwhile the water level of East Dongting Lake declined significantly through the same duration, especially in October. The operation of the Three Gorges Dam decreased flooding days in the areas above 22-m elevation, resulting in lowering of the minimum elevation of vegetation-covered area and synchronous downward movement of vegetation distribution pattern. As the timing of water level recession at elevations of 24–27 m were 12, 17, 19 and 16 days earlier than that in 1981–2002, the optimum elevation for 〈em〉Carex〈/em〉 growth decreased from 25–26 m to 24–25 m. After the operation of the Three Gorges Dam, the annual reversal times of water level increased significantly, which is not conducive to the formation of stable habitat and the utilization of resources by organisms.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 27 December 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Fernando da Silva Sallo, Osvaldo Borges Pinto Júnor, Higo José Dalmagro〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Evapotranspiration is the major component of the water cycle excluding precipitation. Evapotranspiration sub-processes represent important paths of water which have been poorly investigated and may play an important role in the water cycle. Two of these sub-processes are root water uptake (RWU) and root hydraulic redistribution (RHR), which were modelled and numerically explored in this study. Both RWU and RHR were evaluated using the source/sink term in Richards' equation coupled to a vegetation-atmosphere system. This coupling composes a model of water transfer in which the interplay between evapotranspiration and three different root density distributions (exponential, linear and constant scenarios) was simulated to understand, mainly, the influence of rooting systems on RWU and RHR. The results showed that the model consistently described the water dynamics and accurately estimated water fluxes, with evapotranspiration and RWU greater under the constant scenario. RHR contributed, from simulations, up to 21% of the evapotranspiration on a daily basis. Precipitation events may invert the direction of RHR from upward (hydraulic lift) to downward. The last process tends to conserve soil moisture in the root zone. The root systems modified the dynamics of the drainage, being the exponential scenario the greatest contributor to free drainage.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 21 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Bui Huy Hoang, Ha Ngoc Hien, Nguyen Thi Nhu Dinh, Nguyen Anh Thao, Pham Thi Thu Ha, Jaya Kandasamy, Tien Vinh Nguyen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Water quality modeling in a river basin often faces the problem of having a large number of parameters yet limited available data. The important inputs to the water quality model are pollution concentrations and discharge from river tributaries, lateral inflows and related pollution load from different sources along the river. In general, such an extensive data set is rarely available, especially for data scarce basins. This makes water quality modeling more challenging. However, integration of models may be able to fill this data gap. Selection of models should be made based on the data that is available for the river basin. For the case of Cau River basin, the SWAT and QUAL2K models were selected. The outputs of SWAT model for lateral inflows and discharges of ungauged tributaries, and the observed pollutant concentrations data and estimated pollution loads of sub-watersheds were used as inputs to the water quality model QUAL2K. The resulting QUAL2K model was calibrated and validated using recent water quality data for two periods in 2014. Four model performance ratings PBIAS, NSE, RSR and 〈em〉R〈/em〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 were used to evaluate the model results. PBIAS index was chosen for water quality model evaluation because it more adequately accounted for the large uncertainty inherent in water quality data. In term of PBIAS, the calibration and validation results for Cau River water quality model were in the “very good” performance range with ǀPBIASǀ 〈 15%. The obtained results could be used to support water quality management and control in the Cau River basin.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 21 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Andreas Bauwe, Kai-Uwe Eckhardt, Bernd Lennartz〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Phosphorus (P) is mainly leached by subsurface transport pathways in tile-drained landscapes. In this study, we modified the SWAT model (SWAT-P) by incorporating dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) losses from drainage water and the deep aquifer. SWAT-P was tested in a tile-drained lowland catchment using a multi-site calibration and validation approach. SWAT reached a good statistical performance regarding discharge for all sub-catchments and a daily time step. As discharge was dominated by subsurface flow, we optimized DRP concentrations for the drainage water (SWAT-P), the shallow aquifer (SWAT, SWAT-P), and the deep aquifer (SWAT-P) and left other P-related parameters at their default settings, since they did not influence the model output. DRP losses were simulated at a monthly time step using SWAT and SWAT-P. The predictive power was weaker compared to discharge for both SWAT and SWAT-P. Nevertheless, SWAT-P performed considerably better than SWAT. Additionally, calibrated DRP concentrations were unrealistically high for SWAT, whereas calibrated DRP concentrations reflected the prevailing conditions in the region using SWAT-P. The results indicated improved prediction accuracy for DRP losses into streams by using SWAT-P, as well as a roughly realistic estimation of DRP losses from tile drainage water. Further research is necessary to account for the temporal DRP concentration dynamics in drainage water. SWAT-P is ready to use after defining DRP concentrations in tile drainage water and the deep aquifer in the SWAT-P input files. In addition, the model output was extended in SWAT-P to visualize DRP losses from drainage water and from the deep aquifer.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 15 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Madonna Vezi, Colleen T. Downs, Victor Wepener, Gordon O’Brien〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Globally, estuaries are among the most productive ecosystems with many threatened by anthropogenic activities. Zooplankton is a bioindicator of ecosystem integrity. The spatial and temporal composition of zooplankton communities were quantified and compared within and between three estuaries (uMvoti, Thukela and aMatikulu/Nyoni estuaries) with different levels of human pressure in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Additional effects of some physico-chemical variables and seasonal flow patterns to zooplankton community structuring were analyzed. The aMatikulu/Nyoni Estuary was selected as a reference site due to its good ecological state. Sampling dates represented high flow (March and April) and low flow (August and September) from 2014 to 2016. Following aMatikulu/Nyoni, highest abundance was recorded in Thukela and then uMvoti Estuary with copepod 〈em〉Pseudodiaptomus hessei〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Acartia natalensis〈/em〉 dominating the three estuaries. Highest abundance was recorded during low flow in the uMvoti and Thukela estuaries. Redundancy analysis revealed higher salinity and oxygen as environmental determinants of zooplankton community structure in the aMatikulu/Nyoni while turbidity and pH were the determinants of zooplankton community structures in uMvoti and Thukela estuaries. Elevated concentrations of DIN in the Thukela Estuary during high flow identifies the Thukela River as an important source of nitrogen to this estuary. Our findings suggest that these estuaries be managed to ensure sufficient freshwater supply which controls primary production. Although the three estuaries were from the same biogeographical region with a similar river dominated function, high variability in their zooplankton communities could be explained by differing water quality due to differing human pressure in their catchments.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 15 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Anderson Nascimento do Vasco, Antenor de Oliveira Aguiar Netto, Marinoé Gonzaga da Silva〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The increasing demand for water for multiple uses in the watershed of the São Francisco River makes the knowledge of the hydrological characteristics an important instrument so that the use of its resources are optimized with less environmental impact. The analysis of changes in the lower São Francisco River resulting from the successive introduction of dams along the passages and their environmental effects are extremely important when seeking the revival of this waterway. The objective of this study was to determine changes in flow regime in the periods before and after the construction of the Xingó reservoir on the São Francisco River and relate these changes with some ecological implications. For this, we used the method of hydrologic alteration indicators (IHA) and the method of the Environment Flow Components (EFCs). There was a reduction of −31%, −21% and −35% respectively for average, minimum and maximum flow when comparing the studied periods.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 5 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mariusz Ptak, Mariusz Sojka, Tomasz Kałuża, Adam Choiński, Bogumił Nowak〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jorge E. Marcovecchio, Silvia G. De Marco, Fiorella Magani, Carla V. Spetter, M. Ornela Beltrame, José L. Cionchi〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Estuaries are transitional systems that link both land and oceans, with particular dynamics regulated by their own characteristics. The main aim of the present study was the assessment of the effects generated by a strong dry period on the distribution of inorganic nutrients and biological production within Mar Chiquita coastal lagoon, comparing this information with that from periods of precipitation regularly conducted. For this study we selected Mar Chiquita coastal lagoon and analyzed a 20-year data series for concentration and distribution of physical and chemical parameters, in particular salinity, inorganic nutrients (i.e. dissolved inorganic nitrogen, phosphate, silicate) and photosynthetical pigments (i.e. Chlorophyll 〈em〉〈u〉a〈/u〉〈/em〉). We also evaluated the association between these parameters and climate conditions within the region, and found a strong relationship and very quick response to changes. As a result, we report, for the first time in the region, rainfall as a main driver of biogeochemical processes within the estuarine system. The obtained results allowed us to confirm the clear transference processes between land and oceanic systems, and the role of climate as a driver of the corresponding transference processes.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 26 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Paolo Pastorino, Marco Bertoli, Stefania Squadrone, Paola Brizio, Gabriele Piazza, Anna Giulia Oss Noser, Marino Prearo, Maria Cesarina Abete, Elisabetta Pizzul〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉Trace elements are common contaminants in aquatic ecosystems; their detection in biota yields information on their availability in the environment and provides an indirect indication of freshwater ecological status. We analyzed samples of freshwater macrobenthic invertebrates from six watercourses in Friuli Venezia-Giulia (Northeast Italy) to verify whether trace elements accumulation is related to their ecological status 〈em〉sensu〈/em〉 Water Framework Directive (WFD), and to determine tropic level influences on the accumulation of 18 trace elements in macrobenthic communities. Observed concentrations could be in line with results of ecological status assessment defined by the WFD, in fact two sites classified as “Moderate” had the highest trace elements content. The genus 〈em〉Calopteryx〈/em〉 (Odonata, predator) was positively correlated with Be, Cr, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sn, and V (〈em〉ρ〈/em〉〈sub〉〈em〉S〈/em〉〈/sub〉 range 0.777–0.844). Positive correlations were also determined for the genus 〈em〉Rhyacophila〈/em〉 (Trichoptera, predator) with Cu (〈em〉ρ〈/em〉〈sub〉〈em〉S〈/em〉〈/sub〉 = 0.757), suggesting bioaccumulation in macroinvertebrate tissue. Ephemeroptera of the genus 〈em〉Caenis〈/em〉 (collector-gatherers) were positively correlated with Be, Fe, Mn, Pb, Sb, and V (〈em〉ρ〈/em〉〈sub〉〈em〉S〈/em〉〈/sub〉 range 0.757–0.802), indicating that ingestion of sediment is the most effective uptake of these metals.〈/p〉 〈p〉Results of this study, albeit preliminary, showed that trace elements detection in aquatic macrobenthic invertebrates is a useful analysis for obtaining information about the status of freshwater course. Our study provides evidence for a greater accumulation of trace elements in predators and collector-gatherers, suggesting that the tropic level of macrobenthic communities influence the accumulation of trace elements.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 22 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jamileh Panahy Mirzahasanlou, Zohreh Ramezanpour, Taher Nejadsattari, Javid Imanpour Namin, Younes Asri〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Benthic diatom assemblages on the natural substrata at Balikhli River (northwest Iran) were investigated monthly. A total of 96 samples were collected from epilithic and epipelic substrata. A total of 110 taxa from 49 genera were identified. The most abundant diatom species were 〈em〉Cyclotella meneghiniana〈/em〉, 〈em〉Diatoma moniliformis〈/em〉, 〈em〉Nitzschia inconspicua〈/em〉, 〈em〉Planothidium lanceolatum〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Gomphonema olivaceum〈/em〉. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses were performed to visualize relationships between diatom communities from different samples, substrates, seasons and sites. Although n-MDS analysis revealed explicit differences between diatom communities of two substrate but common diatom taxa were not restricted to single substrates. The nMDS analysis showed differences between summer and autumn samples. Diatom composition was diverse at every investigated site. SIMPER analysis determined the most representative taxa of the statistically different groups of seasons, stations and substrates. Cluster analysis of samples identified three major groups based on diatom assemblages. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) of groups resulted from cluster analysis, showed that the nutrient concentration gradient, pH were the most important factors affecting the composition of diatom assemblages and species distribution. The findings of this study denote that the main determinants of variation in benthic diatom communities of Balikhli River result from a combination of land use patterns caused by human activities, river hydrology and natural phenomena including geology.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 13 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Alemayehu Haddis, Bart Van der Bruggen, Ilse Smets〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Constructed wetlands are considered as a promising wastewater treatment option. Though extensively studied, most field experiments reflect the performance of these systems in temperate and cold climates and in relatively controlled flow conditions. This study aims at evaluating the performance of a horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland using indigenous macrophytes in a tropical climate (i.e., in East Africa, Ethiopia) under suboptimal conditions of flow. Two selected plant species, i.e., Cyperus papyrus (papyrus) and Scirpus validus (bulrush) were tested using the wastewater from a dormitory at Jimma University Campus in Ethiopia. The experimental period consisted of two (rather) well controlled phases with two non-controlled and non-sampled phases and one intentional disturbance phase in between. BOD5 removal was 81% in papyrus, 76% in bulrush and 48% in Control. TSS removal was 76% and 75% in papyrus and bulrush compared to 54% in the control. COD removal showed 65% and 62% in the planted beds and 32% in the control. TSS removal demands more controlled operations than other parameters. It was concluded that CWs can function well under irregular flow conditions and can be the technology of choice in low income countries particularly in tropical climates.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 13 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): A.M.M. Batista, A. Giani〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The spatiotemporal variability of the cyanobacteria community was studied in Volta Grande reservoir (Brazil) during 12 months in five sampling sites. The sites followed a spatial gradient, from the river inflow to the dam. To evaluate the molecular diversity of the community, we used the fingerprinting method DGGE (Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis), and at the same time taxonomic analyses based on species morphology were performed under inverted microscope. The most important genera were assembled in three groups: picocyanobacteria, filamentous cyanobacteria and 〈em〉Microstistis〈/em〉 species. Picocyanobacteria belong to a group known for smaller cell size, were observed in all five sampling sites and were dominant especially in sites closer to the dam or in the transition zone. Filamentous cyanobacteria were mainly found closer to the river inflow. A seasonal variation was detected, with higher picocyanobacterial biomass during the rainy season, while nanoplanktonic species were more common in the dry season. Thus, the reservoir showed spatial and temporal variability in the phytoplankton community composition. These patterns were related to variations observed in nutrient concentration and temperature. Picocyanobacteria were a very important part of the phytoplankton community and represented on average 85% of total cyanobacteria biomass. The morphological technique revealed higher diversity than the molecular method possibly because of the low number of deposited sequences available for picocyanobacteria. The oligomesotrophic status observed in Volta Grande reservoir was most likely the main factor responsible for the dominance of this group since the relative importance of picocyanobacteria increases in less eutrophic environments.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: July 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 3〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 18 July 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Volodymyr Shcherbak, Isaak Sherman, Nataliia Semeniuk, Pavlo Kutishchev〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Spatial distribution of plant communities in the human-modified aquatic ecosystem within the Dnieper–Bug Estuary is marked by discrete-continuous patterns. Continuity is caused by hydrological interconnection between the subsystems, and discreteness — by habitat diversity. For higher aquatic plants, the continuity aspect consists in overgrowth of emergent plants all-round the shoreline in both subsystems. The discreteness aspect is noticed in presence of floating-leaf plants’ and submerged plants’ belts in the natural subsystem only (the lake) and their absence in the artificial one (the sand quarry). For algal communities, continuity is observed in predominance of the same divisions in both subsystems. Discreteness manifests itself in higher taxonomic and floristic diversity of algae in the natural subsystem, than in the artificial one. The process of hydrological interaction between phytoplankton and epiphytic algae is another important mechanism sustaining continuity of algal communities.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 2 June 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Artemi Cerdà, Jesús Rodrigo-Comino〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In agriculture lands, it is not clear if the slope position affects the detachment of material and the runoff generation. There are complex interactions between slope position, slope gradient and a series of soil characteristics and their impact on runoff generation and soil erosion may vary from site to site. Then, we designed an experiment to investigate the impact of slope position (footslope, backslope and shoulder) on runoff and soil detachment. To achieve these goals, 25 rainfall simulated experiments with a return period of 5 years, on 0.25 m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 circular plots to measure the detachment along a hillslope in the Celler del Roure vineyards in Eastern Spain were performed. The results of this investigation showed that soil erosion rates (3 Mg ha〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) were high and all the plots generated runoff (runoff coefficient of 24.8%). Those results allow us to conclude that soil detachment and runoff generation in Mediterranean vineyards, where tillage is millennia-old management, could be also evenly distributed. Those results could show that the management in agriculture fields contribute to creating source areas of sediments and water and there would be no areas that act as a sink under intense rainfall events. Based on our research and a literature review, we could propose that agriculture land must have sink areas such as rangelands, wetlands, ponds, meadows or vegetation strips where the surface wash deposit water and sediments. To achieve this goal, we discuss the use of nature-based solutions that would allow contributing to reducing soil erosion.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mikołaj Piniewski, Katrin Bieger, Bano Mehdi〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 10 December 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Lu Yu, Tao Zhuang, Junhong Bai, Junjing Wang, Zibo Yu, Xin Wang, Guangliang Zhang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Changes in labile organic carbon in wetland soils as indicators of soil quality and climate change have received attention worldwide. Soil samples were collected in 2012 and 2013 in estuarine wetlands with different water tables in the Yellow River Delta, and soil salinity, water content (WC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were determined to investigate the effects of water and salinity on labile organic carbon in wetland soils. Our results showed that the response of labile organic carbon to salt and water conditions was different in soil samples with different water tables. The MBC in soils with low water tables (LW) was the lowest when soil WC was 25% and then exhibited an increase with increasing WC. The DOC in LW soils increased and MBC and DOC contents in soils with middle water tables (MW) and high water tables (HW) decreased with increasing WC. MBC in three wetlands presented a “decreasing before increasing” tendency with increasing salinity, whereas DOC totally showed an “increasing before decreasing” tendency. Soil microbial biomass and soil fertility in estuarine wetlands with salinity between 1.8 and 2.0 ppt were relatively high, which was conducive to plant growth. The findings of this study will be helpful to better understand the relationships between soil labile organic carbon and water and salt conditions in estuarine wetlands and provide basic data for carbon sequestration and blue carbon management of estuarine wetlands.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 10 December 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Xuehong Wang, Yunzhao Li, Bo Guan, Junbao Yu, Zhongsheng Zhang, Haitao Wu, Ke Zhang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Up to now, few studies pay attention on the effects of crab burrowing on soil properties of newly formed mudflats. However, this information is important to protect and management the new-formed area. Therefore, a field observation was carried out to investigate the effects of crab burrowing on soil properties of newly formed mudflats in the Yellow River Delta. Crab burrow Parameters and soil properties were measured at three fixed locations. Results indicated that crab burrowing greatly affected soil texture, but not soil nutrient. Soil textural feature was changed from clay to silt by significantly increasing the proportion of sand (+3.82%) and decreasing the proportion of clay (–4.76%). Crab burrowing showed significantly negative effects on soil bulk density, pH, soil salinity, and proportion of clay (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05), but significantly positive effects on water content and the proportion of sand and silt (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05). During crab burrowing, soil total carbon, total nitrogen, and C/N ratio increased slightly, but there were no significant differences in the properties of soil samples with and without crab burrowing (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〉 0.05). Overall, crab burrowing had distinct positive effects on surface soil properties, especially the soil texture. These results suggest that crab burrowing would improve surface soil conditions, which in turn would stimulate other life processes and promote the stability of newly formed wetlands.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 21 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Marco Aurelio dos Santos, Marcelo Andrade Amorim, John Edwin Lewis Maddock, Ana Carolina Lessa, Jorge Machado Damázio, Alexandre Mollica de Medeiros, Orleno Marques Junior〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉This paper presents results of greenhouse gas measurements in the pre-filling phase of hydroelectric reservoirs in Brazil. In contrast to most of the estimates available in the literature on hydroelectric reservoirs, which take into consideration only gross emissions, these data will enable the calculation of the net emissions of the hydroelectric reservoirs studied.1〈/p〉 〈p〉〈/p〉 〈p〉Hydropower sites under construction, where hydroelectric reservoirs have not been installed, are a great opportunity to carry out gas flux measurements in the pre-filling phase and then return to the same reservoirs after the dam closure.〈/p〉 〈p〉In the case of reservoirs already built, the possibility of taking measurements before closing no longer exists. Thus, in addition to providing the opportunity for net measurement estimates, based entirely on specific measurements, the campaigns before the dam closure promote the expansion of the available database to subsidize flux estimates.〈/p〉 〈p〉Three hydroelectric reservoirs were surveyed in Brazil: Belo Monte Hydroelectric Complex, Batalha Hydroelectric Plant and Santo Antônio Hydroelectric Plant.〈/p〉 〈p〉Gas measurements were carried out in land areas (in different types of soil and vegetation use) and in the aquatic areas (rivers, lakes and marshes) before the reservoir flooding. In each reservoir, four measurement campaigns were carried out in order to represent different rainfall regimes and river water levels.〈/p〉 〈p〉The median values of CH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉 emissions were 9.97 ± 3.55 mg CH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉 m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 and 11.34 ± 1.62 mg CH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉 m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 for pasture and forest, respectively. For CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 in the pasture was 10,448.41 ± 3036.48 mg CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 and 8004.50 ± 1314.98 mg CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 for forest.〈/p〉 〈p〉The median fluxes for N〈sub〉2〈/sub〉O were near zero, and 0.78 ± 0.56 mg N〈sub〉2〈/sub〉O m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 for pasture and 0.67 ± 0.29 mg N〈sub〉2〈/sub〉O m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 day〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 for forest. The study showed that the terrestrial areas previous reservoir creation act as potential emitter of greenhouse gases.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 13 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Martin Šikola, Petr Chajma, Petr Anděl, Milič Solský, Jiří Vojar〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Searching for and identification of water bodies (WBs) constitute an integral part of many ecological studies. Because field observations or sophisticated and costly remote sensing techniques (RSTs) cannot always be used, simple methods using freely available data are proposed. The reliability of these techniques in identifying WBs has not yet been experimentally verified, however. This study compares the reliability within various landscape types of five methods/tools in searching for WBs: Google Earth, Landsat 7, Sentinel 2, Open Street Map (OSM), digital water management database (DIBAVOD), and merged layer DOSM (OSM + DIBAVOD). The determined numbers and areas of WBs were compared with values determined by field observation (control). The reliability of all methods improved with increasing WB area. None of the methods was sufficiently accurate to identify WBs smaller than 500 m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉. Images from the Landsat 7 and Sentinel 2 satellites were demonstrated to be entirely unusable due to low resolution. Within various landscape types, reliability of the methods was comparable. When working with various techniques it is necessary to be aware of the limitations of each. To increase reliability, we recommend combining methods.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 14 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Akhilesh Kumar Mishra, Aakash Upadhyay, Ankur Srivastava, Suresh Chand Rai〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉‘Water’ always has been a key resource for humankind but over the period with increasing population and rapid urbanization, water resource is under immense pressure. Groundwater is the prime source of drinking water and needs proper monitoring in order to have an optimum utilization strategy owing to the current scenario of over-exploitation. Being the part of Deccan trap region, the basin is hot and semi-arid, experiencing moderately dry climate accompanied by episodic drought and erratic showers therefore, the surface water of the basin is ephemeral. In the present study, the probabilistic recharge zones have been delineated by dint of various thematic layers viz. geological setting, geomorphic features, land use, slope gradient, infiltration number, soil physiognomies, curvature and lineament through multi-criteria decision analysis technique in the GIS domain. This has further divided into four categories, viz., very poor, poor, good, and very good zones. Thus, this paper is an attempt to demarcate probabilistic groundwater zones in the Vaniar watershed region using geospatial techniques for better planning and management of groundwater resources.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 25 January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): A.F. Torres-Franco, G.R. Alatrista-Góngora, N.P. Guzmán-Rodríguez, J.A. Calizaya-Anco, C.R. Mota, C.C. Figueredo〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Discharge of untreated wastewater into freshwater ecosystems increases nutrient concentrations, causing eutrophication and demanding more intensive monitoring and control activities, particularly in developing areas. Two approaches are commonly used for assessing trophic states of rivers: (1) physicochemical trophic state indexes (TSIs), and (2) trophic indexes based on bioindicators, mainly periphytic diatoms (TDIs). Even when these two approaches seem to be very different, they can be complementary under certain circumstances. This is the case with Río Chili (Arequipa, Peru), a shallow regulated river used for multi-purpose activities, but which is highly polluted due to the discharge of municipal wastewater. The present study assessed the suitability of different TSIs and TDIs by processing data from historical water quality registers and recent monitoring, including periphytic diatom sampling. TDIs were compared with TSIs applied to both recent and historical records. Results indicated that TSIs can be easily obtained from measurements of phosphorus concentrations, but they are less sensitive and resulted in a high degree of homogeneity among the classification of trophic conditions along the urban path of the river. Alternatively, TDIs showed higher precision and sensitivity, reporting detailed classifications of the sampling points. TDIs suggested that Río Chili presented conditions that varied from mesotrophic to eutrophic as consequence of wastewater discharges and soil occupation. A routine use of TDIs with occasional assessment by physicochemical TSIs may contribute to water quality sustainability by informing managers of the effects of organic and phosphorus pollution on eutrophication at a lower cost.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 26 January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tatyana F. Shevchenko, Peter D. Klochenko, Vladimir M. Timchenko, Sergiy S. Dubnyak〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The paper is dealt with the study of the influence of hydrodynamic factors (current, water level fluctuations, and wind driven wave) on the structure of epiphyton occurring on macrophytes of various ecological groups in the Kanev Reservoir (the Dnieper River, Ukraine). The reservoir is subdivided into the river and lake sections, including the transit and non-transit zones. It has been found that the main factors inhibiting the development of epiphyton in the main riverbed of the river section include high current velocities conditioned by discharge currents and water level fluctuations, in the bays of the river section – water level fluctuations, whereas in the transit zone of the lake section – wind driven wave. The performed investigations have shown that the increase in water movement conditioned by high current velocities, water level fluctuations, and wind driven wave results in the decrease in epiphyton species richness, in changes in its species composition, taxonomic structure, dominant complex, dimensional structure, and its numbers and biomass structure, and also in the decrease in the quantitative indices of its development. It has been found that the average number of species in a sample and epiphyton numbers and biomass depended inversely on current velocity, water level fluctuations, and wind driven wave. At the same time, it has been shown that water movement variously influenced algal communities occurring on the substrates of different types, including epiphyton found on macrophytes and periphyton registered on solid artificial inorganic substrates.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 10 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mariya Radomski, Alan Gilmer, Vivienne Byers, Eugene McGovern〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Peatlands have been recognised as having a significant role in the mediation of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) levels with direct implications for global climate change. Longitudinal in situ measurement systems for CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations in blanket peatland ecosystems are difficult to implement where the nature of terrestrial–aquatic connectivity and hydrodynamics have a significant effect on the carbon cycle. The need for greater data on CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations and flux monitoring in these settings has been well recognised. However, applying the most appropriate monitoring approach presents a special challenge. This paper sets out the development of a direct method for field based longitudinal CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentration measurement. Based on experiential considerations a new approach is presented that addresses the complexity associated with the high diurnal dynamics of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 evasion during mid-winter in an Irish blanket peatland soil–water system. The paper outlines the significance of a direct in situ continuous measurement strategy using a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor to evaluate CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations. The CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations recorded as part of this study showed significant differences between the pond waters and the peat waters. The overall CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentration trend did not correlate with the temperature patterns. Further monitoring is essential to evaluate the spatial and longitudinal trends in carbon dynamics. Outputs of this study will have a direct bearing on approaches to carbon flux determinations for this landscape type and will provide an important input to future efforts to explore carbon-hydrodynamics in the surface and sub-surface waters of blanket peatlands.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 8 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Saroja Kumar Barik, Satyanarayan Bramha, Tapan Kumar Bastia, Dibakar Behera, Manish Kumar, Pratap Kumar Mohanty, Prasanta Rath〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The spatio-temporal distribution of geochemical fractions of phosphorus and its bio-availability for Asia's largest brackish water lake has been carried out. One way ANOVA analysis revealed that both iron bound phosphorus (Fe-P) (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 360) and calcium bound phosphorus (Ca-P) (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05, 〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 360) showed a significant variation on a spatio-temporal scale which may be attributed to pH and salinity of overlying water column. Pearson's correlation matrix revealed that sediment texture played a major role in the quantification of phosphorus species. The relationship between Ca-P and Ca was not established for the sediments of the lake Chilika, which suggested its authigenic origin. The concentration of bio-available phosphorus (BAP) in different sectors of the lake varied in the order of northern sector (45.64%) 〉 central sector (42.22%) 〉 outer channel (36.63%) 〉 southern sector (29.27%) of total phosphorus (TP). This is supported by the fact that bioavailable P is comparatively higher in the freshwater zone than in the brackish water zone. The principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a good relationship between dissolved phosphate concentrations of water column with benthic population density. It showed that TP availability in the sediment of the lake is mostly bounded with Al, Fe and organic matter (OM). Positive association of total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN) and OM with negatively loading of Eh indicates towards the fact that, deposition of TN and TC is largely governed by OM availability in sediment.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 16 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Dengzhong Zhao, Zhaohui Wang, Debao Tan, Yongbo Chen, Chong Li〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Greenhouse gas emissions from the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) have received an increasing amount of attention in recent years because of concerns related to regional climate change and clean energy production. The present study compared the greenhouse gas emissions from the Modaoxi and Shennongxi rivers as the southern and northern tributaries of the TGR. Results indicated that mean annual fluxes of carbon dioxide (CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) and methane (CH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉) were 55.8950 ± 92.9469 mg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 and 0.2544 ± 0.9066 mg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 along the Shennongxi River and 77.0298 ± 168.8724 mg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 and 0.2694 ± 1.1006 mg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 h〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 along the Modaoxi River, respectively. While more CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 was released along the Modaoxi River, the methane emissions were similar for these two tributaries. Multivariate analysis indicated that water quality variables were more closely correlated with CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions along the Shennongxi River than along the Modaoxi. Conversely, methane emissions were more closely correlated with water quality variables along the Modaoxi River than along the Shennongxi. Carbon emissions in these two tributaries were mainly affected by inorganic carbon in the water. Organic carbon in the water had almost no effect on carbon emissions in these two tributaries. Further analysis showed that eutrophication and algal blooms maybe generate the largest amounts of greenhouse gas emissions from the Shennongxi River basin, while farming and carbon input from the drawdown area may be the crucial factors affecting carbon emissions in the Modaoxi River basin.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 14 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Anthony Lehmann, Pablo Timoner, Marc Fasel, Martin Lacayo, Saeid Ashraf Vaghefi, Karim C. Abbaspour〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The objective of the SWATCH21 project is to improve our understanding of eco-hydrologic services at the catchment level, and biodiversity at the river scale. Six research questions are proposed: (i) How can we improve the access to input data for hydrological and ecological modeling? (ii) What is the role of glacier and snow in modifying the hydrological services? (iii) How can we best assess hydrologic services supplies and demands with the available data and tools? (iv) What will be the impact of the main hydrologic changes on species diversity in rivers? (v) Can we meet the targets of multi-sectorial river-related policies under different climate and landuse forecasting scenarios? (vi) How detailed do ES data and models need to be to answer relevant policy questions? The above questions are tackled through an integrated framework to access, share, process, model, and deliberate on hydrologic ecosystems services. State-of-the-art models have been selected, and will be compared and improved to model different ecosystems and their services. Initial results from a first SWAT model of Switzerland and Species Distribution Models are presented. Expected outputs from various climate and land use change scenarios include rivers’ hydrology, predicted biodiversity, and the assessment of ecosystem services in terms of provisioning services (e.g. water resources), regulating services (e.g. nutrient, sediment and flood water retention), and cultural services (e.g. biodiversity, recreation). The expected outcome of the project is to improve integrated evidence-based water policy in the future through the analysis of tradeoffs and synergies between services.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 14 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Zuzanna Kowalska, Filip Pniewski, Adam Latała〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Up to now only a fraction of all living organisms in the world has been identified. Organisms are identified using morphological characteristics, which is laborious and requires specialized knowledge. Barcoding DNA helps to solve the limitations of traditional species identification. The nucleotide sequence obtained using specific primers is presented in the form of a strip resembling a bar code which allows comparing and distinguishing species. The standard sequence used for the barcoding of almost all animal groups is derived from the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase gene (Cox1). For fungi Cox1 and ITS (internal transcribed spacers) were proposed as barcodes. In contrast, the world of plants does not have a single standard sequence for identifying species. The ideal marker should consist of a highly variable region enabling species discrimination, and be flanked by highly conserved regions allowing universal primer design for the DNA barcodes standardization. This paper describes the markers used to identify eukaryotic photosynthetic organisms, their properties, advantages and disadvantages, and the proposed standard DNA barcodes. This work focuses on microalgae and macroalgae, which are of great ecological importance and are widely used in food, pharmaceutical or energy industries where they fast, correct and reliable identification is crucial.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 10 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Esther Mosase, Laurent Ahiablame, Raghavan Srinivasan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Water is vital for human survival and ecosystem health. In arid and semi-arid areas like the Limpopo River Basin (LRB) in Southern Africa, water is a precious commodity. The study of spatial and temporal distribution of freshwater components is an important step toward sustainable planning and management of water resources. This case study applied the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to characterize freshwater availability and scarcity in the LRB. SWAT predictions of hydrologic fluxes in the basin are generally satisfactory when compared to known streamflow records, although uncertainties persist in model estimates. Estimates of water yield, herein referred to as blue water, varied from 0.2 to 570 mm/year between 1984 and 2013 over the basin. The analysis revealed alternating cycles of one to two years of water surplus periods and three to five years of dry periods during the study period. The results also indicated that, considering the natural water yield, 20% of the basin (mostly east) has enough water, while the remaining 80% continues to experience dryness and water stress.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Thokchom Bebina Devi, Anurag Sharma, Bimlesh Kumar〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The flow characteristic in a partly vegetated channel with emergent condition is studied by covering a finite length of the channel with natural 〈em〉Oryza sativa〈/em〉 (rice) stems with downward seepage. Spatial study of velocity profiles shows that vegetation reduces the flow velocity lengthways of vegetation zone even with the presence of downward seepage. Reynolds stress increases at the downstream end of the interface section because of higher velocity fluctuations between vegetated and un-vegetated zone. The increase in Reynolds stress at the downstream of interface section is attributed to higher lateral flow and momentum exchange in this transition zone between vegetated and un-vegetated area. For the vegetated section, vegetation serves as a barrier for the vegetated section in reducing the maximum Reynolds stress in the range of 17–20% along the flow direction. It is also observed that downward seepage increases the Reynolds stress as well as turbulence intensities. Integral scales increase with increase in percentage of downward seepage resulting in higher Reynolds stresses with downward seepage. Presented work will help in analyzing the changes in flow field with partially emergent vegetation in alluvial channel subjected to downward seepage. The overall results of this study may enhance the comprehensive understanding of the vegetation effects on flow characteristics in partly emerged vegetated channel and may also provide some guidance for the practice of river ecological restoration on river bed or banks.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 18 January 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): E.T. Koutrakis, S. Triantafillidis, A.S. Sapounidis, P. Vezza, N. Kamidis, G. Sylaios, C. Comoglio〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Preservation of a good ecological status in riverine habitats emerged as a priority for water management policies in Europe since the negative impact caused by the construction and operation of dams on the ecohydrology and habitat availability became more evident. Ecological flows, as reported in the recently published European guidance, represent a link between water and habitat EU Directives. This study presents the application of a mesohabitat simulation model (MesoHABSIM) to evaluate and quantify ecological flows in a highly regulated Mediterranean watershed (Nestos River, Northern Greece). Data collection was performed through GIS/GPS mapping surveys, hydro-morphological measurements (water depth, flow, substratum type, etc.) and electrofishing samplings at mesohabitat scale under different discharge conditions. In total, 81 hydro-morphological units were surveyed and 7532 fish samples were collected to develop habitat suitability predictions. Ecological flows were calculated in the range 10–15 m〈sup〉3〈/sup〉/s as the required discharge which assures the welfare and sustainability of protected fish species populations. In the lower course of the Nestos River habitat time-series indicated irrigation abstractions as a major stressor since summer was the period where habitat availability thresholds were mostly violated. Application of a revised water management plan is required for the downstream part of the Nestos River in order to maintain high ecological standards in the Natura 2000 sites of the Delta.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 July 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Eamonn S. Lenihan, T. Kieran McCarthy, Colin Lawton〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Downstream migration dynamics of silver-phase eels have traditionally been documented using fisheries catch data. However, improved monitoring protocols and more comprehensive analyses are needed because of widespread declines in Anguillid eel stocks. Therefore, daily catches of silver-phase European eel (〈em〉Anguilla anguilla〈/em〉) were recorded at an eel fishing weir on the lower River Erne in northwest Ireland. In parallel, eels detected downstream with an acoustic (DIDSON) camera were surveyed and the results were compared with catch data obtained at the eel weir. The principal objective was to evaluate the use of the acoustic camera to monitor migration patterns and eel swimming behaviour in a regulated river. A highly significant relationship between the acoustic camera eel counts and fishing weir catches was observed (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.001). This indicates that fisheries-independent estimates of eel spawner biomass escapement will be possible in the future using acoustic cameras. Acoustic camera observations on eel swimming behaviour indicated significantly more eels swimming downstream when discharge was continuous through the night (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05). On nights with no discharge more eels were observed swimming upstream (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05). The swimming speeds of eels differed significantly (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.05) between continuous and low discharge conditions. European rivers are increasingly affected by anthropogenic control of discharge to facilitate hydropower generation, flood control and navigation, and this affects natural patterns of eel migration. The results of this study demonstrate the potential use of acoustic cameras for monitoring eel migration dynamics and for behavioural analyses of eel migration in such regulated rivers.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 1〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jonas Schoelynck, Stéphan Creëlle, Kerst Buis, Tom De Mulder, Willem-Jan Emsens, Thomas Hein, Dieter Meire, Patrick Meire, Tomasz Okruszko, Stefan Preiner, Rebeca Roldan Gonzalez, Alexandra Silinski, Stijn Temmerman, Peter Troch, Tomas Van Oyen, Veerle Verschoren, Fleur Visser, Chen Wang, Jan-Willem Wolters, Andrew Folkard〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Patches are of central interest to many areas of environmental science because they provide a lower limit of structural detail in synoptic studies, and an upper limit of contextual structure for point measurement-based studies. Identification and delineation of macrophyte patches however, is often arbitrary and case-specific. In this paper we propose a widely-applicable set of guidelines for delineating a “patch” and “patch matrix” – the latter implying a collection of interacting patches – which could standardise future research. To support this proposal, we examine examples from eco-hydrological studies, focusing on interactions between plants, water flow, sediment, and invertebrates. We discuss three aspects that are key to the delineation of a patch: (1) constitution (variable(s) whose values define the patch), (2) spatial properties (patch boundaries), and (3) distinction (of isolated single patches from multiple separate-but-interacting patches). The discussion of these aspects results in guidelines for identifying and delineating a patch which is applicable to any aquatic habitat, and covers a broad range of disciplines such as plant and animal ecology, biogeochemistry, hydraulics, and sedimentology.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 1 October 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Carolyne W.L. de Andrade, Suzana M.G.L. Montenegro, Abelardo A.A. Montenegro, José R. de S. Lima, Raghavan Srinivasan, Charles A. Jones〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Soil moisture and discharge are interrelated variables which play a major role on water availability, environmental conservation and ecohydrological functioning of a watershed. In order to investigate their spatio-temporal dynamics, hydrological models are valuable tools. However, to minimize uncertainties of the modeled estimates, good quality distributed observational data sets are required for realist predictions. The aim of this study is to apply the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) in a representative watershed of the northeastern Brazil, and to evaluate the effects of using both discharge and soil moisture datasets on the model uncertainties and predictions. The study area is located in the Mundaú River Basin (4090.39 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉). For streamflow, the values of the Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency (NS) among gauge stations ranged from 0.71 to 0.92 in the calibration phase for the annual time step, and between 0.55 and 0.78 in the monthly time step. In the validation phase, NS values ranged from 0.53 to 0.76 for the annual time step, and between 0.62 and 0.72 for the monthly time step. Calibration and validation against daily soil moisture data resulted in a NS values of 0.53 and 0.52, and PBIAS of 0.4% and −1.1%, respectively. These results represent “satisfactory” and “very good” performances for discharge and soil moisture. Although there is still some amount of uncertainty, the use of complementary data, such as soil moisture, to calibrate and validate the SWAT model is useful, especially when discharge data are scarce, as for some watersheds in the semiarid zone.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 4 October 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tiezhu Yan, Jianwen Bai, Toloza Arsenio, Jin Liu, Zhenyao Shen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The projection of streamflow and nutrient exports are essential for future water resource and environmental management plans under climate change. This study investigated the responses of streamflow and total nitrogen (TN) loading to future climate scenarios in the Miyun Reservoir Basin (MRB) by coupling a physical process-based hydrologic and water quality model, Soil and Water Assessment Model (SWAT) and 42 statistical downscaled climate projections on the basis of CMIP5 models. Future climatic projections during the two future periods (2021–2035 and 2051–2065) under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emission scenarios, primarily precipitation and temperature, were used to drive the calibrated SWAT model. Results show that the MRB would be warmer and more humid. The ensemble mean changes in average annual precipitation (mean temperature) are expected to be more than 5.4% (0.6 °C) during the period of 2021–2035 and 12.5% (1.6 °C) during 2051–2065. Future streamflow and TN loading projection are expected to increase in two future periods. Meanwhile, the changes in streamflow and TN loading would be higher in summer than in other seasons. The uncertainty ranges in TN loading projection is larger than that in streamflow projection. The probability that streamflow and TN loading increase would be higher in the period of 2021–2035 than in 2051–2065. This study could be of use for providing an insight into the availability of future streamflow and pollution control for the MRB.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Charles J. Vörösmarty, Vanesa Rodríguez Osuna, Anthony D. Cak, Anik Bhaduri, Stuart E. Bunn, Fabio Corsi, Jorge Gastelumendi, Pamela Green, Ian Harrison, Richard Lawford, Peter J. Marcotullio, Michael McClain, Robert McDonald, Peter McIntyre, Margaret Palmer, Richard D. Robarts, András Szöllösi-Nagy, Zachary Tessler, Stefan Uhlenbrook〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The economic development-environmental protection dichotomy is an out-dated construct. A 21st century approach to the world's water problems is progressively being developed by researchers and practitioners, who are combining traditional and ecosystem-based engineering systems to yield cost-effective solutions. Given the continuing and widespread loss of ecological services and functions, water security in a multi-generational, SDG context requires a meaningful, global commitment to redirect the current downward trajectory in both (i) the state of the world's ecosystems and the services they provide to society, and (ii) our collective level of stewardship of these important resources. Achieving sustainable water security will require overcoming strategic challenges related to protected areas, ecosystem-based solutions research, water observatories and expanded technical readiness. It also needs to address other limitations and demands related to water infrastructure, economies, human settlements and water quality, sanitation and health. Four globally significant actions can support the adoption of more efficient and sustainable water futures: green infrastructure watershed banks, an accelerated global research and solutions program, a new global water-ecosystem services observatory, and an improved technical capacity/workforce development initiative. Finally, the engagement of relevant stakeholders from academia, government, the private sector and civil society are needed to ensure that humankind will be able to meet its water security goals and commitments, including those expressed in the sustainable development agenda.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mulugeta Dadi Belete〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉In response to the recent efforts of the government to foster industrial transformation, the number of industries in Ethiopia have been growing, and ensuring ecological safety is becoming a challenge as a consequence. This study assesses the sustainability potential of industries in Hawassa City, Lake Hawassa and the Cheleleka wetland, Ethiopia.〈/p〉 〈p〉The study investigates the shrinkage rate of the open water portion of the Cheleleka wetland over the last 45 years. Effluents from three large industries were collected and analyzed to measure the degree of stress on the ecosystem. In addition, the potential functional performance of the wetland was modeled based on fifteen field indicators. In addition, a scheme of the proposed constructed wetland system is conceptualized and the required theoretical treatment area of the proposed system is estimated using volumetric and areal-based process design models.〈/p〉 〈p〉The temporal trend analysis found that the open water portion of the Cheleleka wetland to fall from 12 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 in 1972 to 5 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 in 1986, 3 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 in 1995 and 1 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 in 2000; very little area remained in 2007 and 2016. The current functional performance is estimated to be high for water quality improvement (2.3 out of 3 points ≈ 77%); medium for ground water recharge (2 out of 3 points ≈ 67%) and peak flood attenuation (1.2 out of 3 points ≈ 40%). To purify a BOD〈sub〉5〈/sub〉 of 463 mg/l (〈em〉actual〈/em〉) to a BOD〈sub〉5〈/sub〉 of 50 mg/l (〈em〉design target〈/em〉), a total required treatment area of ≈ 20,689 m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 is required according to the volumetric process design model, and 64,276 m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 by the areal-based model.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tamene Hailu Debela, Abebe Beyene, Esubalew Tesfahun, Abiti Getaneh, Addisu Gize, Zeleke Mekonnen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Only a small proportion of Addis Ababa is served by conventional sewerage treatment systems. Most of the city relies upon on-site sanitation, while open defecation remains a common practice, especially in slum areas. This paper provides evidence of environmental pollution related to inadequate sanitation using a range of physicochemical and fecal contamination indicators and a mix of surveys of pit latrine contents, soils and water sources. Some water sources, including deep wells, show indications of fecal contamination, and soils are widely contaminated with the parasitic worm, 〈em〉Ascaris lumbricoides〈/em〉. Analysis of pit latrine contents shows a significant reduction in the number of 〈em〉A. lumbricoides〈/em〉 ova with depth, but levels of ova at even the bottom of the pit suggest the need for proper sludge treatment. Wider awareness of environmental pollution gleaned from this research is intended to inform policy makers and their prioritization of actions to improve urban sanitation.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 1〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Titih Titisari Danielaini, Basant Maheshwari, Dharmappa Hagare〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Urbanisation within global economic and socio-political settings has created rural–urban interfaces, or peri-urban areas, where ecosystem interactions are complex. It is now recognised that the rural–urban interface dichotomy in the current planning and management approaches does not adequately account for the rural–urban interface linkages, particularly for potential emerging conflicts in land and water demands and uses. Using the Cirebon Metropolitan Region (CMR), West Java, Indonesia as a case study, Part I of this two-part article aims to develop a suitable methodology for peri-urban delineation. We used a total of 11 social, economic and spatial variables directly or indirectly related to ecohydrology. Multivariate, univariate and multiple univariate data analysis techniques were used for defining regional rural–urban interfaces. Based on these analyses, eight regional classifications of rural–urban interfaces were proposed and evaluated based on different spatial classification methods and clustering techniques. The results of classification were mapped by integrating both Geographic Information System (GIS) and statistical methods. The study indicates that with the variable included, the multiple univariate clusters using Jenks natural breaks and scoring provides more accurate rural–urban definitions for peri-urban delineation. The proposed methodology provides a suitable framework for delineation of peri-urban areas needed for quantifying ecohydrological state in urbanising landscapes.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jolanta Dąbrowska, Paweł B. Dąbek, Iwona Lejcuś〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Shallow lowland reservoirs situated in agricultural areas are especially prone to eutrophication. For the purpose of protection of such water bodies it is essential to determine not only sources and loads of pollution, but also nutrient pathways from the catchment to the reservoir. The aim of the undertaken research was to establish surface runoff transport pathways from the direct catchment through the shore zone to the retained water. The influence of land use pattern and its management on the directions of flow and accumulation of the surface runoff was analysed. The research was conducted for the Gołuchów Reservoir (N: 51°50′37ʺ, E: 17°56′09ʺ), situated in the central-western part of Poland. From the generated digital terrain model (DTM) with the resolution of 1.0 m, terrain slopes were established and surface runoff transport pathways designated. In the direct catchment of 980 ha four surface runoff areas were delineated (from 29 to 468 ha), from which pollution flows in a concentrated manner to the reservoir through indicated delivery points. Moreover, two areas of 69 and 50 ha were identified, wherefrom unconcentrated surface runoff reaches the water body along the shoreline (1750 m and 2130 m long). Thus, the hotspots for pollution were identified. The high resolution digital terrain model (DTM) for detection of micro-topographic features proved to be especially useful in lowland catchments for identification and analysis of surface runoff transport pathways, as well as for effective planning, development and management of mitigation measures such as riparian buffers, constructed wetlands, agricultural BMPs, or other erosion control techniques (including forest roads).〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 12 March 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Biswajit Bhagowati, Kamal Uddin Ahamad〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Lake eutrophication is one of the major ecological concerns over the world in recent times. Most of the freshwater lakes and wetlands are facing the problem of water quality deterioration and ecological imbalance due to the increasing anthropogenic activities particularly in developing countries. The understanding of the mechanism and identification of the sources of eutrophication will be beneficial to mitigate the problem through proper management policy. Mechanism and effects of eutrophication described within various case studies all over the world, and the evolution of modelling approaches for their mitigation has been reviewed in this paper. With the advancement of ecosystem modeling, it has become feasible for the governmental bodies and policy makers to propose better lake control schemes and restoration programs, through their better predictive capacity. While prediction and control of eutrophication of lakes now has become easier than before, refinements are still going on owing to the ever-increased complexity and lake specific problems that require wider experience and more details. The current status of knowledge about lake eutrophication and advances in ecological and hydrodynamic modeling will be of great use for future research prospects.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 29 July 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Rafael Muñoz-Mas, Javier Sánchez-Hernández, Michael E. McClain, Rashid Tamatamah, Shelard Chilemeji Mukama, Francisco Martínez-Capel〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The influences of habitat structure and hydraulics on tropical macroinvertebrate communities were investigated in two foothill rivers of the Udzungwa Mountains (United Republic of Tanzania) to assist future Environmental Flow Assessments (EFAs). Macroinvertebrate samples, hydraulic variables and habitat structure were collected at the microhabitat scale (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 90). Macroinvertebrate communities were first delineated (i.e. clustered) through Poisson and negative binomial mixture models for count data in a semi-supervised mode by taking into account the sampled river. Then, genetically optimised Multi-Layer Perceptrons (MLPs) were used to identify the relationship of the most relevant variables with the delineated communities. Between the three delineated communities exclusively one community was shared between both rivers. The first and third communities presented similar values of richness (i.e. number of families) and diversity but the first was characterised by high abundance and was dominated by Baetidae (43.2%) while Hydropsychidae (36.3%) dominated the third community. The second community was dominated by Baetidae (33.4%), but it involved low abundance, richness and diversity samples and encompassed the microhabitats where no-macroinvertebrates were found. The performance of the MLP acknowledged the quality of the delineation and it indicated that the first community shows a clear affinity for microhabitats with aquatic vegetation and woody debris and the third for unshaded, fast flowing and shallow microhabitats on intermediate-sized substrate. Conversely, the second community occurred in deep and shaded microhabitats with low flow velocity and coarse substrate. We demonstrated that habitat structure and hydraulics are able to properly discriminate the macroinvertebrate communities, which, in turn, underlines their importance as drivers of community composition and abundance. Aquatic vegetation, woody debris, velocity and substrate index, followed by depth and shade, emerged as the most discriminant variables to understand macroinvertebrate communities in these tropical running waters. These results should enhance the implementation of ongoing and future EFA studies.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Metogbe Belfrid Djihouessi, Mahougnon Bernauld Djihouessi, Martin P. Aina〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉A systematic literature review was undertaken to understand the state and relationship between habitat types and biodiversity in the open coastal Lake Nokoué and to analyse the research gaps towards an efficient management of this ecosystem. Habitat types in Lake Nokoué have been profoundly impacted by the urbanisation around the lake. Kilometres of riparian habitat including mangrove vegetation were destroyed on the south and western shoreline of the lake, removing the natural protection of the ecosystem to the increasing sewage nutrient load. In addition, to this anthropogenic pressure, the solid wastes from the villages on stilts (Ganvié’s villages) increased the nutrient enrichment of the lake. Consequently, the lake experience a seasonal bloom of water hyacinth which dies and sinks to its bottom each year when the salinity rises above 6 ppt. Note that the salinity dynamics of the lake is governed by its hydrological regime which was highly affected by the widening of the sea entrance into the lake around 1960. In addition to these changes, the intensification of the acadja fishing practice has led to the exportation of tonnes of dry woods into the lake. The decay of these woods combined with the accumulation of hyacinth detritus has disturbed the habitats of macroinvertebrates and fish. There is a progressive shift in the system from freshwater species to marine water species and from insectivorous fish to detritivorous fish. Management solutions required reduction of both detritus accumulation and external nutrient load.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tuli S. Msuya, Makarius C.S. Lalika〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Linking integrated water resources management (IWRM) and Ecohydrology for the sustainance of watersheds and environmentally friendly economic activities is vital for ensuring continued water flow and a steady supply of watershed services for societal needs, and the integrity of aquatic vegetation and animal species. However, regardless of the reforms in water policy and the Water Resources Development Programme and Water Resources Management Act to include provisions for IWRM, Tanzania is still facing several institutional challenges in the practical implementation of IWRM. This study aimed at exploring the potentials and constraints for integrating Ecohydrology and IWRM to develop an integrated institutional framework for providing a sustainable flow of ecosystem services for societal needs along the Pangani River Basin (PRB) in Tanzania. The data was collected through socio-economic methods including questionnaires, surveys, structured and semi-structured interviews and a documentary review of secondary information. Logistic regression models were performed to analyse factors influencing watershed management integration. Logistic regression results showed that watershed management integration was significantly (〈em〉p〈/em〉 〈 0.001) constrained by poor inter-sectoral coordination at field level, diverging interests of watershed stakeholders, incompatibility between formal and informal institutions, poor highland-lowland integration, development interventions, population pressure, inadequate political support and migration. This, together with power imbalances and the uncoordinated interests of multi-stakeholders, predispose the PRB's watersheds to unsustainable management. This state of affairs will continue to hamper national aspirations to effectively implement IWRM along the PRB. Successful IWRM implementation would allow the country to meet its obligations towards sustainable watershed management. It is recommended that an integrated institutional framework capable of integrating upstream and downstream communities be developed.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sani Dauda Ahmed, Sampson Kwaku Agodzo, Kwaku Amaning Adjei, Maxwell Deinmodei, Vivien Chikogu Ameso〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Increasing incidences of flooding and kidney disease in the communities surrounding the Hadejia-Nguru wetlands present a cause for concern. This paper presents the outcome of preliminary investigations carried out in the affected communities of Jigawa and Yobe States. The results show that 85% of the profiled communities mostly located within the floodplain area experience both human and financial losses due to these problems. The flooding is believed to occur as a result of changes in rainfall patterns and the flow regime of the riverine systems, reduction of river channel capacity, low lying topography and bioinvasion by Typha grass. The prevalence of kidney disease has been traced to possible contamination of water sources due to the large-scale use of agrochemicals to improve agricultural production and pollutants from other sources upstream and within the wetlands area. Water quality analysis conducted on water samples from the Hadejia and Yobe rivers revealed high concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) ranging from 13 to over 150 times above acceptable limits. Records from health centers near the communities show that 40% of patients admitted suffered from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), 70% of whom were from Gashua, Nguru and Jakusko in Yobe and some communities in Jigawa State. Despite these findings, establishing cause-and-effect relationships requires an in-depth investigation of hydrological, environmental, ecological and socio-economic changes occurring in the wetlands area. Although our findings reveal some promising possibilities for establishing targets and intervention program, ecohydrological systemic approaches are recommended to identify cause-and-effect links and provide sustainable solutions.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Renata Dondajewska, Anna Kozak, Agnieszka Budzyńska, Katarzyna Kowalczewska-Madura, Ryszard Gołdyn〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Bielsko Lake is large (257.9 ha) and deep (max. depth 23 m, mean depth 6.2 m) lake, located in the Pomerania Region, serving as a receiver of treated municipal sewage as well as stormwater, from the town of Biały Bór. Deterioration of water quality has been observed in recent years – the lake was still a in moderate state (III class) in 1997, but now it is in a poor condition (IV class) with low Secchi depth (to 0.3 m), high chlorophyll-a content (up to 153 μg dm〈sup〉−3〈/sup〉) and cyanobacterial water bloom in summer, dominated by 〈em〉Planktothrix agardhii〈/em〉, 〈em〉Aphanizomenon gracile〈/em〉, 〈em〉Planktolyngbya limnetica〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Pseudanabaena limnetica〈/em〉. External nutrient load exceeds 3.4 times the permissible TN load and 2.4 times TP load, according to Vollenweider's criteria. To improve the ecological state of Bielsko Lake protective measures against pollution have been proposed. Treated municipal sewage should be diverted from the lake by the transport to specially prepared filtering fields, which will drain the sewage into the ground. Stormwater should be treated in a sedimentation and biofiltration system before being discharged to the lake. As internal loading from bottom sediments is very high, sustainable restoration was also proposed. Soluble reactive phosphorus in the water column could be inactivated using small and accurately calculated doses of iron sulfate and magnesium chloride. A cascading effect of trophic interactions of the food web on phytoplankton could be obtained using piscivorous fish stocking (biomanipulation method).〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: July 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 3〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Neal R. Haddaway, Jennifer McConville, Mikołaj Piniewski〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The term ‘ecotechnology’ has been used since the early 1970s to describe combinations of practices relating to the environment and technological intervention. Despite its common usage, there seems to be little consensus on its practical meaning. In order to better define the term, we conducted a systematic review with a thematic synthesis of all definitions of the term. We searched a suite of bibliographic databases to collate literature referring to the term ‘ecotechnology’ in various ways. All explicit definitions were extracted from articles and were critically appraised to identify ‘rich’ and ‘broad’ definitions. Using thematic synthesis, we generate a conceptual framework for definitions of the term ‘ecotechnology’ based on themes that emerge across all explicit definitions. We test this conceptual model using examples of ecotechnology identified from the articles relating to carbon and nutrients. We identified 1221 articles referring to the term ‘ecotechnology’ across 9 bibliographic databases, of which 657 were unique articles. Of the 77 carbon and nutrients articles providing definitions, almost half used the term ‘ecotechnology’ as a buzzword. Some 38 themes were identified across the 49 explicit definitions and these were clustered into 9 groups: combining processes/integrating nature and society; good for society; good for nature; profitability/efficiency; making nature work for society; making society work for nature; improving processes/learning from the environment; components, equipment, machinery (hard technology); and, processes and behaviours (soft technology). As a result, we developed a conceptual framework for the term ecotechnology which can serve as a useful concept unifying and gathering efforts around a common vision. We also developed a working definition for the purpose of a project we were involved in, based on the framework proposed.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 31 March 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Andrzej Górniak〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This study used a long-term monitoring data to analyse the abundance, seasonal dynamics, spatial distribution and catchment export of total organic carbon (TOC) in one of the largest undisturbed peatland river catchment in Central Europe. Mean annual TOC concentrations in the Narew River basin were higher than 10–11 mg C L〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 which is similar to nemoral or Baltic rivers. The maximal monthly TOC concentrations occurred in May with a one-month delay from the spring maximum of water outflow. High TOC concentrations were accompanied by naturally increased organic nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations resulting in decreased water quality class despite the anthropogenic pressure is low. Mean annual export of TOC from the Narew River catchment amounted to 2.15 g C m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉, which is nearly 25% higher than for the Vistula River, the recipient. TOC export form the analysed river basin in dry years was 30% lower and 50% higher in wet years than the multiannual average. The primary cause of high TOC concentrations in the Narew River catchment and high TOC export is the occurrence of biogeochemically active wetlands, functioning not only thanks to spring flooding of the valleys, but also based on permanent intensive groundwaters supply from surrounding plateaus. This emphasises the importance of basin hydrology in the regulation of carbon cycling in the temperate lowland catchments. Our results also indicate that in environmental zonation of Europe Narew River catchment should be classified as belonging to the Baltic Province (Nemoral environmental zone) rather then to Continental zone. This is because it is characterized with high riverine TOC concentrations and natural water oxygen depletion in summers. Thus, Environmental Stratification of Europe developed for environmental statistics and monitoring should be re-evaluated. Climate change is likely to affect the organic carbon circulation in peatland catchments and reduce TOC fluxes into river network.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: April 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 2〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Nic Pacini, Petra Hesslerová, Jan Pokorný, Timothy Mwinami, Edward H.J. Morrison, Anthony A. Cook, Sikun Zhang, David M. Harper〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉East African wetlands are naturally dominated by papyrus, the world's fastest growing herbaceous plant, reaching up to 5 m in height and 3 kg m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 of standing biomass per year. While its provisioning services are well-known, papyrus plays a less evident role in supporting tropical swamp ecosystems by controlling nutrient balances as well as hydrological flows, and through the provision of critical biotopes vital for the reproduction of insects, fishes and birds, including a small number of endemic species. Claims are made condemning papyrus for enhancing water loss, yet only few proper evapotranspiration studies have been carried out. Conflicting evidence indicates that papyrus swamps could be important in regulating local climate through evapotranspiration and hold significant potential in climate mitigation through carbon sequestration and carbon storage as peat. These benefits may become soon severely eroded because papyrus swamps are degrading rapidly due to direct exploitation, to agricultural encroachment, and to extensive trampling and feeding by cattle. We review papyrus ecosystem services, with a focus on its role on biodiversity enhancement and regulating functions. We present new evidence, showing an inverse temperature gradient within papyrus swamps, indicative of an optimised water retention capacity, with examples from Lake Naivasha and Lake Victoria. Better understanding of papyrus regulating services should underpin papyrus restoration as an ecohydrological tool to improve water quality, to moderate local climate by regulating the water cycle, to provide base material for a variety of provisioning ecosystem services, to enhance biotope structure and to support biodiversity.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 1〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tanapipat Walalite, Stefan C. Dekker, Paul P. Schot, Martin J. Wassen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Although the functioning of river floodplains as sink or source of nutrients has been studied extensively for temperate regions, similar studies in tropical regions are less abundant and studies integrating data about floodplain soil, vegetation, and water are scarce. We examined and compared nutrient contents in soil, water, and vegetation tissue in two different vegetation zones on the monsoon Songkhram river floodplain (Thailand). Significant differences were found between bamboo and grass zones. The soil in the bamboo zone is more fertile than the soil in the grass zone, as indicated by the lower C/N ratio, and has significantly higher organic matter and higher total N and K. Bamboo leaf tissue had significantly higher concentrations of nutrients than grass biomass. The growth of the bamboo is P-limited or P and N co-limited, but grass is N-limited. In both zones, the soil-available P and organic carbons after flooding were significantly lower than before flooding. Floodwater in both zones had low dissolved solid concentrations. After the flood peak, most concentrations tended to increase, especially organic carbon and dissolved nitrogen but phosphorus decreased. The results suggest a significant loss of organic carbon from the soil after flooding, indicating that the floodplain acts as a source of carbon that is exported downstream. Nonetheless it is also evident that the floodwater brings in sediment and nutrients. Based on rough estimations of nutrient budgets we conclude that the highly productive bamboo zone adjacent to the river filters out the nutrients before they reach the grass zone.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 31 October 2017〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Michael Mannich, Cristovão Vicente Scapulatempo Fernandes, Tobias Bernward Bleninger〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Floating chambers are widely used to estimate gas fluxes at the air–water interface of surface waters especially to assess greenhouse gas emissions from manmade lakes and reservoirs. The fluxes measured by the chamber method, however, can be significantly biased, as the chamber itself is an intrusive gas flux monitoring method based on measuring gradient changes within the chamber, which are very sensitive to turbulent transport properties at the interface. The relevant parameters are: (i) the measurement time, (ii) the volume to area ratio, (iii) the gas transfer velocity, and (iv) the gas solubility. In this paper we perform an analytical estimation of the uncertainties associated to interferences of the chamber on the flux measurements. We showed that the dominating overestimation factor is driven by artificially-enhanced turbulence due to the chamber deployment which explains the heterogeneous experimental results in literature. We proposed a correction method to reduce uncertainties in gas estimatives and will allow compare measurements with different chamber designs.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 13 September 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Heike Markus-Michalczyk, Dieter Hanelt〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Willows are regarded as globally occurring pioneer species providing ecosystem functions like bank stabilization and water purification, and serving as shelterbelts to prevent degradation of the environment. Some species are adapted to physical disturbance like wind, waves and currents due to their fast growth and vigorous resprouting capacity, and are widely used in short rotation coppices for biofuel production. Knowledge on willow river floodplain-forest ecology exists and 〈em〉Salix〈/em〉 flooding tolerance is documented. However, information on floodplain-forests along river mouths where the estuarine tide affects willows is scarce. In the Anthropocene, tidal amplitudes are increasing in many estuaries due to the deepening of the navigational channel for harbour accessibility. With regard to tidal forest restoration, the Elbe estuary close to the Hamburg harbour served as a model system to study the effect of increasing tidal flooding on 〈em〉Salix alba〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Salix viminalis〈/em〉. Our results show occurrence of both species at sites up to 60 cm below mean high water and their tolerance to twice daily flooding. Experimental findings on cuttings that were placed on flooding stairways at the tidal freshwater stretch showed the ability to resprout and grow up to more than 1 m below mean high water for 〈em〉Salix viminalis〈/em〉 but not for 〈em〉Salix alba〈/em〉. Willows may maintain their habitat when tidal amplitudes are increasing but repeated physical flood damage prevents 〈em〉Salix alba〈/em〉 in tidal floodplain-forests from rejuvenation. These forests may be restored along protected sites to ensure the ecosystem functions and services they provide in the estuarine environment.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 19 January 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): William F. Vásquez, Carlos Eduardo de Rezende〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Using a referendum-format contingent valuation survey, we investigated the residents’ willingness to pay for restoring the water quality of the Paraíba do Sul river in the city of Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil. We estimated values for an environmental improvement consistent with the Brazilian water legislation in order to facilitate the dialog among environmental scientists, water users, and policymakers, among other stakeholders. Over the years, residents have lost a great deal of water services due to residential, industrial, and agricultural pollution, and our contingent scenario proposes water quality improvements that will restore those services. Findings indicate that local residents are willing to pay from 0.81% to 1.25% of the average reported income above their current water bill for restoring the Paraíba do Sul river, depending on assumptions about response uncertainty.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 6 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Michel Rahbeh, Raghavan Srinivasan, Rabi Mohtar〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Farmers along the main reach of the Zarqa River Basin (ZRB) commonly utilize treated wastewater for irrigation. Deep percolation is expected to occur as a result of irrigation, and it is expected that preferential flow pathways may facilitate the downward movement of irrigation water. Therefore, the aim of this research was to investigate the susceptibility of soils near Zarqa River to preferential flow, and the HYDRUS and Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) models were used. The methodology consisted of taking tension infiltrometer measurements along the Zarqa River to determine the main physical properties relevant to preferential flow, such as infiltration rate and macroscopic capillary length, followed by investigating the downward water movement using HYDRUS and SWAT. The HYDRUS simulations were conducted using single porosity (SP) and dual porosity (DP) constitutive functions pertaining to matrix and preferential flow, respectively. The in situ tension infiltrometer measurements were used to parameterize the surface layer of the HYDRUS DP model. HYDRUS simulations showed that preferential flow occurring in the surface layer of the soil profile controlled the vertical movement of soil water in excess of field capacity. The comparison between SWAT, SP and DP showed that both SWAT and DP were capable of simulating preferential flow in arid watersheds. However, SWAT simulations of lateral discharge and deep percolation resemble that of the DP only when the evaporation soil compensation factor (ESCO) was set to a value of 0.8 and the length of the soil slope was set to its maximum value.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Larissa Leite Pavão, Luciana Sanches, Osvaldo Borges Pinto Júnior, Jonas Spolador〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The hydraulic properties of the soil surface strongly depend on the physical attributes of the soil and, understanding such hydro-physical soil dynamics is both economically (e.g. recharging of the water table) and ecologically (e.g. maintenance of available moisture for the vegetation) important. The objective of this work was therefore to characterize the hydro-physical characteristics of the soil in an area dominated by Acuri palms in the northern Brazilian Pantanal. Transects of 50 m was delimited and two treatments with six replicates were demarcated. In one treatment, soil litter accumulated on the soil was collected monthly during a period of two years. In the other treatment, soil litter was left under natural conditions. Data were collected on: soil density, particle density, total porosity, volumetric humidity, texture, hydraulic conductivity (saturated and unsaturated) and infiltration. Soil density was higher when soil litter was absent, and had deeper layers, greater volumetric moisture and higher total porosity when soil litter was present. Infiltration rate was significantly higher in the absence of litter, probably due to the lower matrix potential when the soil is drier. Significantly, saturated hydraulic conductivity was higher in the litter treatment and had a positive correlation with volumetric moisture (0–5 cm depth), indicating that soil water fluxes are enhanced by natural vegetation cover. In contrast, unsaturated hydraulic conductivity was significantly higher in the absence of litter. These results clearly demonstrate that soil litter exerts a strong influence on the hydro-physical characteristics of the soil, improving physical quality leading to greater water flow.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 April 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Daniel Szymański, Magdalena Zielińska, Julita A. Dunalska〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In this study, pressure driven ceramic membranes for microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) were used to improve the quality of waters in lakes. Four urban lakes were examined that are located in the city of Olsztyn and belong to the Masurian Lake District: Track (53°47′21″N; 20°32′24″E), Podkówka (53°47′2″N; 20°27′1″E), Tyrsko (53°48′18″N; 20°25′21″E), and Redykajny (53°48′55″N; 20°25′4″E). The effects of the composition of lake water from different photic zones and of the type of membrane on the efficiency of removal of total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were investigated. The average efficiencies of rejection were 71.6 ± 5.8% (TOC), 16.0 ± 5.7% (TP) and 19.6 ± 9.3% (TN), independently of the composition of the feed and the type of membrane. Due to the similar average permeate fluxes of 2.2 ± 0.1 L/(m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 min) and water recoveries of above 85% in MF and UF, the use of MF is suggested because it has lower operational costs than UF. Because membrane filtration of waters from the zones with the highest chlorophyll contents was very effective both in terms of efficiency of pollutant rejection and hydraulic parameters of membranes, this technology can be used for selective treatment of parts of water with the highest phytoplankton abundance.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 2 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Ali Fadel, Najwa Sharaf, Mariam Siblini, Kamal Slim, Ahmad Kobaissi〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Toxic cyanobacterial blooms are of major concern in eutrophic inland waters due to their water quality deterioration capabilities. Understanding their dynamics and driving factors is of great importance to manage bloom events and their consequences. Ecosystem models enable us to simulate, analyze and understand ecological processes in complex aquatic ecosystems. In this work, we examined the ability of the General Lake Model-Aquatic EcoDynamics (GLM-AED), an open-access one dimensional hydrodynamic-ecological model to simulate physical variables and the dynamics of two cyanobacterial species in 2016. The effect of possible hydrological and climatic scenarios on cyanobacterial blooms occurrence was also investigated. Results indicate that the model was able to accurately reproduce changes in water level (MAPE of 0.4%), water temperature profiles (MAPE of 5 to 7%) and the biomass of 〈em〉Microcystis aeruginosa〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Chrysosporum〈/em〉 (〈em〉Aphanizomenon〈/em〉) 〈em〉ovalisporum〈/em〉 at the study area. Dramatic changes were observed under warming trends including increase in both the length of the stratification period and in cyanobacteria bloom dynamics. Data analysis revealed that while water temperature was the primary factor determining cyanobacterial succession and occurrence, other factors such as water level fluctuations and irradiance are also important. Our findings suggest that any further increase in temperature would promote the development of potentially toxic cyanobacterial blooms at Karaoun Reservoir. The good performance of the model will provide essential insights required for deeper ecological understanding and water quality management.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 1〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 27 November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Aboubacar Sylla〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Plant filtering techniques have proved to be appropriate solutions in the treatment of wastewater and effluents can be re-used in water-deficient areas in urban or rural agriculture. The results of the treatment of secondary black water in the pilot scale filtration basins which were obtained during our six-month tests were the subject of another study for the re-use of filtrates (RALBI). However, they show the impact of filter basins on the elimination of different pollutants from black water effluents of 46.9–63.26% COD and 31.72–60% of the NH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉+〈/sup〉 conversion, as well as on the effect of 〈em〉Arundo donax〈/em〉 on the absorption of nitrogen. The rate of NH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉-N removal for the control was 0.0152 gNH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉-N/m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉/d and 0.0127 gNH〈sub〉4〈/sub〉-N/m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉/d for the planted filters, while the mean loading rate of the influent was 0.271 g/d, and a concentration of 101.77–176.44 mg/L nitrate was measured in the treated effluent. In addition, meaningful reduction of fecal coliforms and streptococci was achieved, over 95%. The quality of treated effluents has shown that the use of planted filters as a post-treatment stage is an efficient and inexpensive technology for the treatment of wastewater in small urban and rural communities.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sai Kiran Natarajan, Dharmappa Hagare, Basant Maheshwari〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Increasingly, stormwater management systems such as urban lakes and wetlands are being implemented in developing urban areas. They are designed to serve multiple purposes. Urban stormwater management systems have environmental, economic, and social impacts. The main aim of this study was to explore the community values and social and economic benefits of urban lakes in the Western Sydney region of New South Wales, Australia. The study involved two case study sites and community surveys using the tailored design method. For this study, a combination of three methods of data collection was used; online, onsite and letterbox drop off surveys. The survey explored several aspects such as community wellbeing, environment and property value benefits. Responses from the community show that there is an overall positive perception of the lake and associated parkland. When asked, over 70% of the respondents stated that there is a positive impact of the lake on the property prices. Additionally, 50% of residents found that there was moderate to significant impact of the lake on both mental and physical wellbeing of people. Approximately 20% of respondents stated that they would not exercise if the local lake system did not exist. Also, 60% of the respondents stated that the lake improved their quality of life. Furthermore, a hedonic property price analysis was done to quantify the impact of the lake on the surrounding properties. A positive correlation was found between the lake and property prices of surrounding homes. The findings from this study provide evidence to policymakers and municipal councils to encourage investments to improve performance of existing lakes as well as develop new ones in the urban areas.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 27 November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Raoni W.D. Bosquilia, Christopher M.U. Neale, Sergio N. Duarte, Solon J. Longhi, Silvio F. de B. Ferraz, Frank E. Muller-Karger, Matthew J. McCarthy〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Knowing the variation of the water consumption of a crop or vegetation can help to avoid damages caused by the lack of water, besides allowing a better knowledge of the environment around. Thus, variations in evapotranspiration in sugarcane, planted forest, and native forest were examined as a function of relief variations and terrain exposure in the northeast sector of the State of São Paulo, Brazil (20°43′55.2″S–22°36′28.8″S, 46°37′48.0″W–48°50′16.8″W). These areas, covering a total of 2232 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉, were studied using monthly Landsat 8 satellite data (Path 220 and Row 75) collected over 24 months from April 2013 to March 2015. Thus, this study aimed to use a hybrid Two Source Energy Balance (TSEB), adjusted to convert hourly ET to monthly and annually data, in obtaining ET for two years to areas with sugarcane, planted and native forests and evaluate how this evapotranspiration behaves spatially for some parameters, as altitude, slope, exposure faces of the terrain and biomes, using multivariate analysis. The results identified three evapotranspiration groups: highest evapotranspiration in the highest altitudes and topographic slope; medium evapotranspiration in medium altitudes and slopes; and low evapotranspiration at low altitudes and slopes. The highest rates of evaporation occurred in summer and fall, when temperatures were highest.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Maciej Zalewski, Giuseppe Arduino, Giovanni Bidoglio, Wolfgang Junk, Johannes Cullmann, Stefan Uhlenbrook, Jun Xia, Carlos Garcia de Leaniz, Pawel M. Rowinski, Charles J. Vörösmarty, Luis Chicharo〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 9 November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): A. Ganeshkumar, G. Arun, S. Vinothkumar, R. Rajaram〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The present study focused on the bioaccumulation and translocation efficacy of heavy metals by 〈em〉Rhizophora mucronata〈/em〉 from a tropical mangrove ecosystem. The results revealed that concentration of metals in sediments varied according to different seasons, ranging for Cd (0.07–0.85), Pb (0.43–17.49), Cu (2.88–14.87) and Zn (7.80–38.37) mg/kg. Likewise, in plant tissues metal concentration ranged 0.10–0.62 (Cd), 0.76–4.35 (Cu), 6.20–26.57 (Pb) and 1.75–61.67 (Zn) mg/kg. The elevated levels of heavy metal profiles were observed in the following pattern: Zn 〉 Pb 〉 Cu 〉 Cd. Among the four metals tested Pb showed highest concentration in the mangrove associated sediment and plant tissues in all the seasons, followed by Zn, Cu and Cd. In addition, bioaccumulation and translocation of Pb from the sediment to the plant tissues were relatively higher than other elements and ranged between 1.08–1.36 (BAF) and 0.96–1.29 (TF). The utilization of metals present in the surrounding medium of 〈em〉R. mucronata〈/em〉 in Muthupet mangrove depends on the nature of the metal and seasonal changes. Also, the presented concentration of metals in plant tissues were several folds higher than the WHO recommended levels for plant protection, but the concentrations recorded in the sediment samples were much lesser than the sediment quality guideline. Having better accumulation and translocation rate of Pb 〈em〉R. mucronata〈/em〉 could be used as bio-indicator for monitoring Pb pollution in Muthupet mangrove ecosystem.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 20 February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Ye Sun, Yasuhiro Takemon, Yosuke Yamashiki〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Zbigniew Bis, Rafał Kobyłecki, Mariola Ścisłowska, Robert Zarzycki〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The biochar is a solid residue obtained from thermolysis (pyrolysis) of various biomass feedstock including lignocellulosic waste. The issues associated with the production and application or usage of the biochar have been dynamically developed throughout the world in recent years and the application of biochar in soils has been widely discussed as a possible and simple way to sequestrate carbon and improve soil's chemical and physical properties for better plant growth. The present paper deals with an overview of the currently available knowledge on the above subject and is widely supported by authors’ own research results. The results of authors’ investigation on biochar application to Polish soils indicate that addition of biochar into soils in different proportions increase the soil carbon content, pH, and plant growth. It is discussed that the biochar production would be an important component of circular bioregions’ economy and a powerful tool for clean energy conversion and atmospheric carbon sink in order to counteract climate changes.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Peter Bridgewater〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉The term “Nature-based solutions” (NbS) has now entered the lexicon of natural resource managers. Yet there is still a lack of clarity regarding what Nature-based solutions offer to a world pining for sustainability. This is shown in sharp relief by the different definitions and positions taken by IUCN and, among others, the European Commission.〈/p〉 〈p〉Although NbS are applicable worldwide the origin of the idea from two European-based agencies has given it a strong Eurocentric focus. Recent literature has expanded the focus to a more global one. Yet, in striving for sustainability in today's world, with rapid and unpredictable change and real questions on how close we are to crossing planetary boundaries (if, indeed, such boundaries exist), we need to resolve what “nature” we are talking about and what “solutions” we see it providing. There are 10 clear, interrelated principles, governed by feedbacks between and among them that can be derived from the thinking behind NbS. These principles echo those of the Ecosystem Approach of the Convention on Biological Diversity and can be linked to the whole theoretical and practical base included under the discipline of Ecohydrology. UNESCO's work in Ecohydrology and Biosphere Reserves under the International Hydrological and Man and the Biosphere Programmes continues to provide practical solutions for global management of water and ecosystems on a rapidly evolving theoretical base. To be fully effective NbS must focus on twenty-first century environmental problems and what solutions nature can contribute in resolving known, known-unknown and unknown-unknown problems.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Samin Ansari Mahabadi, Ali Reza Massah Bavani, Ali Bgheri〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Hydrological changes due to climate change will impact the sustainability of social-ecological systems (SES). It is essential to develop methodologies, capable of addressing economic as well as the environmental aspects, to take care of the water-associated system through improving the system adaptive capacity, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. Through the application of the Post-Modern Portfolio Theory (PMPT), we propose a new approach to water allocation problem in the face of climate change, as a case of Lake Tashk-Bakhtegan basin, Southern Iran. The economic model based on PMPT is adapted for designing water allocation schemes to maximize local economic return, minimize its risk and minimize the Gini coefficient indicative of social inequities. The climatic variables were generated by three Atmosphere-Ocean General Circulation Models. The temperature and precipitation will increase and decrease by about +2.4% and −10% on average in the future compared to those in the historical period, respectively. In order to identify hydrological and socio-economic implications of climate change in the basin, an integrated system dynamic model was developed. Finally, the decision space of equally effective solutions has been determined in the form of Pareto points at the efficient portfolio plane. The findings showed a decrease in the economic return (on average by 5.7% in the both RCPs) and the ratio of employment to unemployment (average 10% in most of sub-basin), owing to the reduction of water resources, especially in agriculture. Base on Portfolio results, the ratio of economic return to risk doubled and tripled in optimized condition compared to the normal condition in the future. The efficient plane of the portfolio can be used to allocate water to economic activities according to a risk-taking attitude of a decision-maker. Following the model results, services and industrial sectors would need to be developed in order to sustain local water resources with possible additional allocations for environmental requirements, with simultaneous improvement of economic return on water resources.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Zeying Liu, Lina Zhao, Ting Xu, Fei Bu, Xiaomeng Liu, Demin Zhou〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Wetland protection and recovery needs scientific foundations for a better understanding of wetland floods, since the flooding existence and its dynamics are the key aspects in the formation and evolution of wetland ecosystems. The Honghe National Natural Reserve (HNNR) in the Northeast China has been listed in the 〈em〉Ramsar Convention on Wetlands〈/em〉 since 2002. The specific dates for determining of an average inundation boundary caused by a regular flooding were firstly fixed from multiple rainfall events by a hydro-meteorological analysis based on the long-term rainfall data. The flood inundation areas in the HNNR marshes were mapped according to the correlation between hydro-geomorphology and regular flood progress. The mapping of the flood inundation areas were supported technically from the application of remote sensing images, combining the hydro-geomorphologic analysis with meteorological statistical data. The final map with the spatial-temporal content of an inundation created by hydro-geomorphological analysis and remote sensing data was validated by the long-term rainfall, soil moisture and surface water level data in the HNNR. The results indicated that the flood inundation areas were mainly distributed in large patches along the two main river courses of Nongjiang River and its branch of Woyalan River in the northern and central HNNR. The flood inundation patches were scattered as seasonal marshes and permanent ponds in the southern and eastern HNNR. The extracted flood inundation area accounted for more than a quarter of the total area of HNNR. The flood inundation area of Nongjiang was much larger than that of Wuyalan.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 18 October 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Dipanwita Sarkar (Paria), Susmita Lahiri (Ganguly), Debarati Ghosh, B.B. Jana〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Spatial and seasonal variability of diversity, abundance and carbon sequestration potential of net-phytoplankton were examined across the sewage effluent of six wetlands in waste stabilization ponds used for the treatment of municipal wastewater cum fish culture. The values of the Shannon-Weiner diversity index for Myxophycaeae, Euglenophyceae, and Chrysophyceae were higher in the facultative pond compared to maturation ponds, whereas that of Bacillariophyceae was higher in later than in former. The gross and net primary productivity of phytoplankton ranged from 3.594 g C m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 d〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 to 32.858 g C m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 d〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 and 2.34 C m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 d〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 to 15.227 C m〈sup〉−2〈/sup〉 d〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉, respectively. The P/R ratio varied from 1.365 to 5.729 in different ponds investigated. Two clear-cut zones were well recognized. The facultative pond with the supremacy of blue-green algae favoured immense carbon sequestration potential. The total phytocarbon biomass in the facultative pond (60,491 mg C m〈sup〉−3〈/sup〉) was 2.5–4 folds higher than in subsequent maturation ponds. The carbon sequestration potential of the entire wastewater stabilization pond system was calculated to be 133,279 mg C m〈sup〉−3〈/sup〉. Further research is needed to prepare carbon budget by quantifying the carbon capture from atmosphere and emission into the atmosphere, if any through mud-water interactions of the bottom sediment.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: July 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 3〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: July 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 3〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tomasz Okruszko, Maciej Zalewski〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 18, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Rebeca González-Villela, Martín José Montero Martínez, Julio Sergio Santana Sepúlveda〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This study analyzes the water availability in the Conchos River basin (Northern México) through the amount and frequency of the precipitation. Precipitation is associated with the environmental flows in determining how much of the flow in the river has been altered by the effects of climate change or human influence. Changes in water were determined by two precipitation periods: before (1961–1983) and after (1984–2008), using a climatological mesh database created by Center of Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada. Two periods for their differences in the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was calculated. IHA V7 program was used for the analysis of environmental flows. In the after period, there were significant increases in precipitation during the rainy season, with a substantial decrease in minimum precipitations and in the number of storms. On the other hand, during the dry season, it rained less, making the climate extreme and indicating a change in the humidity patterns. There was a total alteration of the environmental flows of the river. This aspect generated a total loss of the frequency, magnitude, duration, and periodicity of the environmental flows during the year due to the management of the dam for electricity generation, irrigation, and flood control, altering the composition, structure and function of the riparian ecosystem. However, the synergic effect of climate on the water availability was observed. Advantage of determining environmental flows is that decision-makers can know how many changes have been introduced into the river flow patterns by human consumption or by climate change.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 September 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Behnam Azadmard, Mohammad Reza Mosaddeghi, Shamsollah Ayoubi, Elham Chavoshi, Majid Raoof〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Near-saturated hydraulic conductivity is one of the key parameters for water transport models in the unsaturated zone and essential for management practices. This study was conducted to compare efficacy of multiple linear regression (MLR) and hybrid method of genetic algorithm with artificial neural network (GA-ANN) for prediction of near-saturated soil hydraulic properties in Moghan plain, north-western Iran. The results of MLR analysis indicated that this method had low potential to predict near-saturated soil hydraulic properties in the study area, which only could explain 14–38% of variability in the studied properties. Otherwise, GA-ANN was much higher powerful that could explain about 35–80% of total variability in the mentioned properties in the study area. The results of sensitivity analysis suggest that soil particle size distribution, organic matter, electrical conductivity and relative bulk density were the most crucial with variety of priorities for explaining variability of the near-saturated soil hydraulic properties in the study area in the semiarid region. In overall, it was concluded that application of intelligent system using the easily available soil properties as predictors could provide reliable estimates of near-saturated soil hydraulic properties at the filed scale.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 28 September 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Izabela Koniuszewska, Ewa Korzeniewska, Monika Harnisz, Edyta Kiedrzyńska, Marcin Kiedrzyński, Małgorzata Czatzkowska, Paweł Jarosiewicz, Maciej Zalewski〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The aim of study was to analyze the occurrence of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) in the Pilica River. Seasonal variations in the occurrence of ARGs in river water were also determined. Water samples were collected in 7 sites situated along a 186-km section of the Pilica River from Przedbórz to estuary. River water was sampled four times between November 2017 and July 2018. Environmental DNA was isolated from water samples, and selected genes encoding resistance to tetracyclines (〈em〉tet〈/em〉(A), 〈em〉tet〈/em〉(B), 〈em〉tet〈/em〉(C), 〈em〉tet〈/em〉(D), 〈em〉tet〈/em〉(E), beta-lactams (〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉OXA〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉SHV〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉TEM〈/sub〉, 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉CTX-M〈/sub〉), macrolide, lincosamide and streptogramin (MLS) antibiotics (〈em〉erm〈/em〉F and 〈em〉lin〈/em〉A), sulfonamides (〈em〉sul〈/em〉1), fluoroquinolones 〈em〉(aac(6′)-Ib-cr〈/em〉) as well as the integrase 1 (〈em〉int〈/em〉l1) gene and the 16S rRNA gene were amplified by standard PCR. ARGs were most prevalent and diverse in winter samples which harbored the 〈em〉int〈/em〉l1 gene and genes encoding resistance to beta-lactams, MLS antibiotics, sulfonamides and tetracyclines. The 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉OXA〈/sub〉 and 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉CTX-M〈/sub〉 genes were detected only in two autumn samples. The 〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉TEM〈/sub〉 gene was prevalent in all samples regardless of the time and place of sampling. Variations in the prevalence of ARGs were not observed along the analyzed section of the Pilica River, which indicates that pollutant loads did not increase along the river continuum. It should be noted that selected genes (〈em〉bla〈/em〉〈sub〉TEM〈/sub〉, 〈em〉tet〈/em〉(A)〈em〉, tet〈/em〉(E)〈em〉, erm〈/em〉F〈em〉, lin〈/em〉A) were present in all or nearly all water samples regardless of sampling date or sampling site, which indicates that these ARGs are ubiquitous in the environment.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 19 December 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Dorota Michalak〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉There is a mutual connection between agriculture and hydrology. Proper management of the water resources in agriculture, and taking appropriate action or avoiding inappropriate activities in this area could significantly reduce anthropogenic stress and thus have a positive impact on the ecohydrology of the country.〈/p〉 〈p〉Questions arise about whether state regulations and the activities of government institutions support farms in the effective management of water resources, There are also questions about how farmers deal with the challenges of water management that result from climate change. In order to answer these questions, the following research tools were used: analysis of existing data, a review of the literature and legal acts, as well as a quantitative research method – a questionnaire.〈/p〉 〈p〉The study shows that despite the lack of – or negligible – support of government institutions, Polish farmers are trying to cope with the consequences of climate change on water management themselves; this is especially true for large and medium-sized agricultural enterprises. However, the farmers still have not realized that their individual decisions reduce the economic efficiency of their production but that they also negatively impact ecosystems, hydrology, and other economic entities whose activity depends on the quality of the water resource.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 18 December 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Justyna Łożyńska, Agnieszka Bańkowska-Sobczak, Zbigniew Popek, Julita Dunalska〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The aim of the study was to assess the efficiency of mineral aggregates in orthophosphate (OP) removal from hypolimentic water (HW) withdrawn from eutrophic lakes. Four P reactive materials were tested in sorption experiments: light weight expanded aggregate (LECA), zeolite (ZL), dolomite (DM) and limestone (LS). The two materials proved to be most effective in OP binding were LS and LECA. For these agents we conducted further investigations to reveal the effect of variable pH and temperature in the range commonly found in HW withdrawn from eutrophic lakes (6.0–8.0 and 5–15°, respectively). Kinetic studies under varying OP concentrations (0.1–2.0 mg PO〈sub〉4〈/sub〉〈sup〉3−〈/sup〉 L〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) in synthetic solutions and HW were involved to check influence of hypolimnion chemistry on OP fixation. LS was the most efficient in OP removal, followed by LECA, dolomite and zeolite. OP sorption by LS and LECA increased with decreasing pH and increasing temperature and was faster and higher in HW as compared to standard solutions. The results indicate that OP fixation onto these materials would be most efficient in case of lakes with acidic and relatively warm bottom layer. Hypolimnion warming, which is often observed in restored lakes, will further enhance OP removal. Use of LS mixed with LECA was recommended for a potential treatment of HW withdrawn from eutrophic lakes. OP retention before hypolimnion transport downstream can mitigate side effects of hypolimnion removal by preventing eutrophication of receiving water bodies which can be regarded as substantial improvement of this lakes` restoration method.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: October 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: October 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, Volume 19, Issue 4〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Luis Chicharo, Carlos Rezende, Marcos Pedlowski, Michael McClain〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 17 January 2020〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Rong Xiao, Qian Wang, Mingxiang Zhang, Wenbin Pan, Jian Jim Wang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In order to discover the plankton distribution patterns and its relationship with environment gradients and hydrological connectivity in wetlands, samples from Yellow River Delta that span gradients in salinity and hydrological connectivity were analyzed in this study. Plankton community composition, abundance and biomass were determined and correlated with water variables and hydrological connectivity indexes to gain information about the forces that structure the plankton community in this dynamic environment. Phytoplankton with a total of 88 species and zooplankton with a total of 49 species were observed at an average abundance of 4.11 × 10〈sup〉7〈/sup〉 cells/L and 951.27 ind./L, respectively. Predominant species were 〈em〉Merismopedia minima〈/em〉 G.Beck/〈em〉Merismopedia elegans〈/em〉 A. Braun ex Kützing (Cyanobacteria) and 〈em〉Trichocerca pusilla〈/em〉 (Jennings) (Rotifera), accounting for over 10% of the total abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton, respectively. The dominant species of phytoplankton communities were shifted from freshwater Chlorophyta (e.g., 〈em〉Oocystis〈/em〉 sp.) to brackish Cyanobacteria (e.g., 〈em〉Merismopedia minima〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Merismopedia elegans〈/em〉) and then to marine cyanobacterium (e.g., 〈em〉Oscillatoria〈/em〉 sp. and 〈em〉Pseudoanabaena〈/em〉 sp.); That shift in zooplankton community was from freshwater rotifers 〈em〉Trichocerca pusilla〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Polyarthra trigla〈/em〉 (Ehrenberg) to brackish rotifer 〈em〉Brachionus urceus〈/em〉 (Linnaeus) and copepod 〈em〉Thermocyclops〈/em〉 spp. and then to marine copepods 〈em〉Sinocalanus〈/em〉 spp. and 〈em〉Microsetella〈/em〉 spp. toward the river mouth. However, abundance, biomass and community similarity of plankton decreased with increasing water salinity and decreasing hydrological connectivity from upper reaches to river mouth. Salinity gradient could be major force for the shift of plankton community while the increasing hydrological connectivity between freshwater and saline habitats promoted the similarity of plankton distribution patterns within the wetland network.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 17 January 2020〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Shengkui Cao, Guangchao Cao, Guangzhao Han, Fangtao Wu, Yao Lan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Alpine wetland ecosystems play significant roles in water regulation and regional ecological safety on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau due to large water conservation potential. The knowledge of evapotranspiration (ET) in various alpine wetland ecosystems is of great significance for understanding the water balance of wetland ecosystems and carrying out eco-environment conservation. Therefore, two alpine wetland ecosystems as lakeside and headwater of Qinghai Lake basin were selected, and their ET characteristics and influencing factors were researched over two years. The daily ET in the lakeside ecosystem showed ‘double peak’ curve, and the headwater ecosystem showed the ‘multiple peak’ ET curve. The monthly ETs in two respective wetlands ranged from 9.88 to 111.56 mm and from 0.23 to 75.5 mm, respectively. The annual ET in the lakeside ecosystem was averagely 1.89 times more than that of the headwater. Stepwise multiple linear regressions indicated that monthly average net radiation (〈em〉R〈/em〉n) and leaf area index (LAI) explained 96% variance in monthly ET in the lakeside ecosystem; 〈em〉R〈/em〉〈sub〉n〈/sub〉 and monthly average wind speed (WS) explained 94% variance in monthly ET in the headwater ecosystem. These results indicated that the ET is variable in two alpine wetland ecosystems and R〈sub〉n〈/sub〉 was their primary driving factor on monthly scale.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 24 May 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Natalia S. Brizzotti-Mazuchi, Keith C. Cunha, João P.Z. Siqueira, Bianca G. Almeida, Thiago H. Lemes, Taiza Maschio-Lima, Maicon H. Caetano, Mariela D. Ribeiro, Cláudia R. Rodrigues, Elza M. Castilho, Margarete T.G. Almeida〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The presence of microorganisms in potable water can alter its quality and cause public health issues when ingested or after contact with skin and mucous membranes, especially in individuals with impaired immune system. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence and seasonality of potentially pathogenic yeast in the public water supply of a municipality in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. In addition, to evaluate the in vitro susceptibility profiles of the isolates against four antifungal drugs. Water samples (〈em〉n〈/em〉 = 1923) were collected from distinct points of the public water system, 15 days after the beginning of each climatic season. They were filtered through a cellulose membrane, which was subsequently upturned on an agar plate. Results show that 11.5% of the samples were positive for yeasts. After identification of the isolates, 〈em〉Rhodotorula minuta〈/em〉 was the most prevalent in spring (48.6%), fall (35.2%), and summer (46.3%); and 〈em〉Candida〈/em〉 spp. in winter (68.2%). Resistant phenotypes were observed in 54.2% of the isolates, mainly because of 〈em〉Rhodotorula〈/em〉 spp. As conclusions, yeasts are present in the water supply during all seasons of the year with great species variability and significant rates of resistance. These results indicate a health concern, suggesting that water quality control protocols require changes to minimize exposure to potentially pathogenic microorganisms and selection of resistant strains.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 2 March 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Heying Li, Yunbao Fan, Zhaoning Gong, Demin Zhou〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Water accessibility assessment (WAA) is very important to the ecological restoration of freshwater wetlands and water resources management due to an intensive human disturbance. This paper develops a quantitative methodology for WAA in the Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve (YRDNNR), from which an assessment of water accessibility is made on the freshwater wetlands. The assessment uses a Water accessibility index (WAI) model by employing GIS network analysis and spatial statistical analysis. Five indicators for the model cover both natural and anthropogenic factors, including distance from freshwater resources, average elevation, road density, ditch density, and number of culverts at the grid scale. The values of the WAI model are between 0.26 and 0.82. The WAI has a significant and positive spatial autocorrelation. There are totally 12 freshwater marsh patches exist in the YRDNNR. The highest WAI value in the freshwater marsh patch occurs near the estuary area of the Yellow River, while the lowest WAI value lies farthest from the Yellow River. There are two freshwater restored wetlands that have lower WAI values, from which a scientific restoration strategy is presented to remove the paddy field, roads and other facilities between two wetlands and the Yellow River Course. The results of the WAI model have been validated by matching the ratio of water body area within patches and consulting with local administrators, which indicates a satisfied WAI assessment effectiveness. The proposed WAI can help administrators to guide wetland ecological restoration and to plan for freshwater resources management.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 26 November 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jiaguo Yan, Zhenchang Zhu, Honghui Huang, Xinyan Wang, Haochen Sui, Dongdong Qiu, Junhong Bai, Baoshan Cui〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Concerns on the environmental disruption and ecosystem degradation due to the biological invasions are growing, with far-reaching consequences for the resilience of recipient ecosystems. While numerous studies mostly emphasized the negative impacts of invasive species on native species at a single time point, there is a lack of knowledge whether and how the invasion impacts vary with time. Here, we provide an empirical study on stage-dependent invasive impacts in an intertidal seagrass habitat (〈em〉Zostera japonica〈/em〉), which is undergoing invasion of an invasive cordgrass (〈em〉Spartina. alterniflora〈/em〉). Combining results from field surveys and experiments suggested that, impacts of cordgrass on seedling establishment of native seagrass species shift from facilitation at the initial stage of invasion to inhibition at the later stage when the invasive cordgrass become densely vegetated, causing density-dependent effects. In addition, at the later stage, patch expansion of cordgrass triggered degradation of seagrass-dominant habitats, showing the remnant patches of seagrass-dominant habitat have a strong patch-size dependent effect, with an optimal patch size of ∼8 m〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 and ∼1.5 cm detritus to the establishment of seagrass seedlings. These stage-dependent effects strongly linked to water movement and sedimentation rate. Both of them are modified by the abundance of the invasive cordgrass and patch formation through transforming native seagrass habitat with invasion. Our findings highlight the importance of unraveling stage-dependent impacts for assessing the consequences of biological invasion on native ecosystems degradation.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 25 November 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Shuo Yin, Junhong Bai, Wei Wang, Yanan Guan, Jiaguo Yan, Xiaowen Li, Xinhui Liu〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉A 200-day tethered litter experiment was performed to evaluate the effects of two dimensions of hydrological connectivity (lateral and longitudinal, two perpendicular dimensions) and three placement treatments (surface, semi-buried, and buried) on 〈em〉Suaeda salsa〈/em〉 litter decomposition and nutrient release. We used the hydrodynamic condition to represent hydrological connectivity. Mass loss in semi-buried and buried treatments was higher than the surface treatment (〈em〉p 〈〈/em〉 0.05), and the former two were basically the same except for the area farthest from the tidal creek. The enhancement of lateral hydrological connectivity significantly accelerated mass loss under the surface and semi-buried treatments (〈em〉p〈〈/em〉 0.05). Sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) concentrations in the surface treatment were higher than another two treatments in most cases. N concentrations increased with enhancing lateral hydrological connectivity, while potassium (K) concentrations showed a decreasing trend under stronger hydrological connectivity. Phosphorus (P) and S concentrations were not affected by hydrological connectivity. The amount of nutrient release increased with the enhancement of the lateral hydrological connectivity in the surface and semi-buried treatments except for N, and the longitudinal hydrological connectivity only influenced K under the surface treatments. The amount of nutrient release under the surface treatments was lower than another two treatments (〈em〉p 〈〈/em〉 0.05). Our findings suggest that the lateral hydrological connectivity has a greater impact on mass loss and nutrient release than the longitudinal hydrological connectivity. If 〈em〉Suaeda. salsa〈/em〉 litters are excessively exposed to soil, decomposition processes would increase rapidly and the effects of hydrological connectivity might become minimal.〈/p〉〈/div〉