Ecology of a Chalk Aquifer: Composition of Benthic, Hyporheic, and Phreatic Invertebrate Communities in Relation to Changing Environmental Conditions

Abstract

Groundwater is recognised as an important resource for drinking water, agriculture, and industry, but it also plays an essential role in supporting the functioning of freshwater ecosystems and providing habitat for a number of rare species. However, despite its importance, groundwater ecology often receives little attention in environmental legislation or research. This study aims to improve our understanding of the organisms living in groundwater-dependent habitats and the influence of environmental conditions on their distribution.