Abstract
Abstract Aquatic systems are likely to experience a much greater variety of changes, at least through human activity, than terrestrial systems. The increase of nutrients has created the most visible problems, resulting in algal blooms, loss of oxygen, decreasing fish populations, and ultimately depriving bryophytes and lichens of light. As in the terrestrial system, the decrease of pH and increase of heavy metals have caused more subtle changes, often favouring bryophytes over their vascular competitors. But in addition to those problems that are also experienced by terrestrial situations, the aquatic system can suffer from unique problems. Construction of dams alters flow regimes and can alter the dissolved substances as a result of oxygen depletion in the reservoir. Temperatures are likely to rise, not only as the result of the greenhouse effect, but also from deforestation, reservoirs, and heated effluents, creating problems for those organisms that are adapted to the previously existing narrow temperature range. Deforestation, agriculture, and construction increase turbidity, which may affect light intensities or cause abrasion. Organic pollutants, much more common in aquatic systems, can be toxic to selected members of the community.
Published Version
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