6 - Aquatic, Semi-Aquatic and Riparian Vertebrates

Abstract

Aquatic, semi-aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates play a very important role in energy flow, nutrient cycling, and riparian landscape engineering. The current geographic distribution of aquatic, semi-aquatic, and riparian species is a reflection of the abundance and variability of water supply in different regions. They are vulnerable to habitat degradation or alteration associated with flow regulation, irrigation schemes, and the conversion of floodplains to agriculture. Freshwater habitats provide food and shelter to a large number of vertebrates besides fish, but only a few are wholly adapted to inland waters. Semi-aquatic reptiles are represented by some of the most ancient living vertebrate species, which include the 23 species of crocodilians, two thirds of the 250 species of modern testudinids, and a small number of freshwater snakes. Semi-aquatic mammals such as otters and hippopotamuses display remarkable anatomical and physiological adaptations. And riparian species exhibit characteristic behavioral traits. Rivers serve as bio-corridors for aquatic and semi-aquatic vertebrates. The riparian mammals include some rodents and shrews, monkeys, buffaloes, antelopes, etc.