Wetlands: Ecology, Conservation and Management – serie

The author is to be congratulated on her efforts and perseverance in undertaking this research, and Springer for making the material available in this book format. I commend the information to all who live close to or around the Becher Point wetlands and the whole study as a model for wetland science globally. Peter Bridgewater Secretary General Ramsar Convention, Gland, Switzerland December 2005. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS In a piece of work with wide ranging subject matter and extensive duration, such as this, there are many people to acknowledge and to thank for their contribution and perseverance. Many people followed through to completion tasks which incorporated several stages and several years. They expressed a real commitment to the project and a love for the wetlands in the area. It has been uplifting to work in their company. Together, we have amassed a repertoire of stories that are funny, disappointing, bizarre, dangerous and inspirational. I wish to begin by thanking the many peoplewho assisted with fieldwork because this is where the story really started. They are: Ben Asper, Derek Bazen, Theo Bazen, Anthony Bougher, Gary Dietrich, Martine Desbureaux, Toby Nisbet, Kaylene Parker, Julie Pech, Karen Semeniuk, Trudi Semeniuk, Tony Smith, and Joy Unno. Regional surveying of sites was carried out by Ric Stephenson. The people who assisted in preparing samples for laboratory analyses were Penny Clifford, Toby Nisbet, and Joy Unno. The people responsible for final electronic drafting of the diagrams were Craig Miskell, Vic Semeniuk and Glynn Kernick.

This book chronicles the decades-long work of studying, analyzing, and reversing the environmental pressures that threatened India’s Chilika Lagoon, the largest brackish-water lagoon in the region, and the second largest in the world. Designated as one of India’s first Ramsar Sites in 1981, Chilika Lagoon continued to degrade for a decade longer. Then, the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) was established to gather information and devise a restoration plan that benefits the ecosystems of the lagoon, with sensitivity to the needs and livelihoods of local communities.Expert contributors detail the work of analysis, planning and implementation, including extensive coverage of such topics as:Devising a plan for implementing Ramsar wise use guidelinesSedimentologic, chemical, and isotopic impactsHydrodynamics and salinity Runoff and sediment in watersheds of the Lagoon's Western CatchmentLong-term analysis of water quality and continued water quality monitoringBio-optical models for cyclone impact assessmentStudies of geomorphology, land use, and sedimentary environments Spatiotemporal assessment of phytoplankton communitiesCreation of a post-restoration scenario for fish and fisheriesAssessing status of waterbirds, species diversity and migration patternsThe result was a major hydrological intervention to re-establish hydrological and salinity regimes, biodiversity, and fish catches, and help protect the livelihood of lagoon-dependent communities. The story of the rehabilitation and management of Chilika Lagoon demonstrates that it is possible to halt and reverse the encroachment and degradation of wetlands, to restore biodiversity and to provide benefits for large numbers of people.Ecology, Conservation, and Restoration of Chilika Lagoon goes beyond scientific research articles to explore institutional and governance issues, political ecology, and the Ramsar Convention’s guidelines for ecosystem restoration. The book will benefit researchers, wetland managers, government policy makers and more general readers concerned with restoration and conservation of wetlands around the planet.

This book chronicles the decades-long work of studying, analyzing, and reversing the environmental pressures that threatened India’s Chilika Lagoon, the largest brackish-water lagoon in the region, and the second largest in the world. Designated as one of India’s first Ramsar Sites in 1981, Chilika Lagoon continued to degrade for a decade longer. Then, the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) was established to gather information and devise a restoration plan that benefits the ecosystems of the lagoon, with sensitivity to the needs and livelihoods of local communities.Expert contributors detail the work of analysis, planning and implementation, including extensive coverage of such topics as:Devising a plan for implementing Ramsar wise use guidelinesSedimentologic, chemical, and isotopic impactsHydrodynamics and salinity Runoff and sediment in watersheds of the Lagoon's Western CatchmentLong-term analysis of water quality and continued water quality monitoringBio-optical models for cyclone impact assessmentStudies of geomorphology, land use, and sedimentary environments Spatiotemporal assessment of phytoplankton communitiesCreation of a post-restoration scenario for fish and fisheriesAssessing status of waterbirds, species diversity and migration patternsThe result was a major hydrological intervention to re-establish hydrological and salinity regimes, biodiversity, and fish catches, and help protect the livelihood of lagoon-dependent communities. The story of the rehabilitation and management of Chilika Lagoon demonstrates that it is possible to halt and reverse the encroachment and degradation of wetlands, to restore biodiversity and to provide benefits for large numbers of people.Ecology, Conservation, and Restoration of Chilika Lagoon goes beyond scientific research articles to explore institutional and governance issues, political ecology, and the Ramsar Convention’s guidelines for ecosystem restoration. The book will benefit researchers, wetland managers, government policy makers and more general readers concerned with restoration and conservation of wetlands around the planet.

This edited book presents the first collection of case studies and research projects on the sustainable technology of constructed wetlands for wastewater management under hot and arid climates. It is the first such work that summarizes in a single reference the current international experiences and knowledge on the implementation of this nature-based solution under these diverse and often harsh climatic conditions. It covers the relevant gap in the fragmented and limited literature by providing integrated information and documentation on the feasibility of this green technology.The book presents the treatment efficiency of constructed wetland facilities and the research output from 29 different countries across South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, while it covers various applications such as domestic and municipal wastewater, various industrial effluents and municipal sludge. Many examples and case studies further demonstrate the potential of this technology to contributeto better address the issues of water scarcity and limited fresh water resources through circular management of treated effluents e.g. reuse in irrigation. It also discusses the various challenges and technical aspects that should be considered in such climates, along with the environmental, financial and social benefits of this technology.This work is a useful handbook and guide for professional engineers, practitioners, academics, researchers, students, and water authorities who wish to get a better understanding and first-hand information on the potential of constructed wetlands for cost-effective and sustainable wastewater management in countries with hot and arid climates.

This edited book presents the first collection of case studies and research projects on the sustainable technology of constructed wetlands for wastewater management under hot and arid climates. It is the first such work that summarizes in a single reference the current international experiences and knowledge on the implementation of this nature-based solution under these diverse and often harsh climatic conditions. It covers the relevant gap in the fragmented and limited literature by providing integrated information and documentation on the feasibility of this green technology.The book presents the treatment efficiency of constructed wetland facilities and the research output from 29 different countries across South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, while it covers various applications such as domestic and municipal wastewater, various industrial effluents and municipal sludge. Many examples and case studies further demonstrate the potential of this technology to contributeto better address the issues of water scarcity and limited fresh water resources through circular management of treated effluents e.g. reuse in irrigation. It also discusses the various challenges and technical aspects that should be considered in such climates, along with the environmental, financial and social benefits of this technology.This work is a useful handbook and guide for professional engineers, practitioners, academics, researchers, students, and water authorities who wish to get a better understanding and first-hand information on the potential of constructed wetlands for cost-effective and sustainable wastewater management in countries with hot and arid climates.

This book presents 12 effective methods to manage wetlands for conservation. It offers a tool box of causal factors that can be used to protect and restore wetlands to enhance biological diversity and other functions. Each causal factor is introduced, briefly explained, and then illuminated with selected examples from around the world.The book provides a prioritized shopping list of methods for protecting and restoring wetlands. The three first and most important causal factors are flooding, fertility, and natural disturbance. Then nine other causal factors are introduced, including herbivory, sedimentation, roads, invasive species, and coarse woody debris. Each causal factor is carefully linked to the scientific literature and explained using the author’s own experience. The same list of 12 causal factors applies around the world—whether you are managing a temperate zone floodplain, a tropical peatland, a freshwater marsh, or a coastal mangrove swamp. Instead of hiring an expensive team of consultants, or pouring through hundreds of scientific papers, here is one concise guide to methods that can be immediately applied to benefit any wetland.Professor Paul Keddy has spent more than 50 years studying wetlands, and writing and lecturing about the environmental factors that control them. He has published more than 150 scholarly papers, and won multiple scientific prizes. His book Wetland Ecology is widely used to teach the principles of wetland science. Causal Factors for Wetland Management: A Concise Guide has a much simpler message: how to protect and enhance wetlands. In this concise guide, he has condensed a lifetime of experience into just 12 principles.The book is aimed at all people who protect or restore wetlands: park managers, wildlife biologists, landscape architects, engineers, environmental consultants, environmental agencies, conservation authorities, and NGOs—as well as landowners and concerned citizens. Causal Factors for Wetland Management: A Concise Guide is essential reading for anyone who cares for wetlands and wild places.

This book presents 12 effective methods to manage wetlands for conservation. It offers a tool box of causal factors that can be used to protect and restore wetlands to enhance biological diversity and other functions. Each causal factor is introduced, briefly explained, and then illuminated with selected examples from around the world.The book provides a prioritized shopping list of methods for protecting and restoring wetlands. The three first and most important causal factors are flooding, fertility, and natural disturbance. Then nine other causal factors are introduced, including herbivory, sedimentation, roads, invasive species, and coarse woody debris. Each causal factor is carefully linked to the scientific literature and explained using the author’s own experience. The same list of 12 causal factors applies around the world—whether you are managing a temperate zone floodplain, a tropical peatland, a freshwater marsh, or a coastal mangrove swamp. Instead of hiring an expensive team of consultants, or pouring through hundreds of scientific papers, here is one concise guide to methods that can be immediately applied to benefit any wetland.Professor Paul Keddy has spent more than 50 years studying wetlands, and writing and lecturing about the environmental factors that control them. He has published more than 150 scholarly papers, and won multiple scientific prizes. His book Wetland Ecology is widely used to teach the principles of wetland science. Causal Factors for Wetland Management: A Concise Guide has a much simpler message: how to protect and enhance wetlands. In this concise guide, he has condensed a lifetime of experience into just 12 principles.The book is aimed at all people who protect or restore wetlands: park managers, wildlife biologists, landscape architects, engineers, environmental consultants, environmental agencies, conservation authorities, and NGOs—as well as landowners and concerned citizens. Causal Factors for Wetland Management: A Concise Guide is essential reading for anyone who cares for wetlands and wild places.

This edited volume provides a review of remediation approaches utilizing aquatic and wetland macrophytes in the Tropics. This form of phytotechnology has exceptional potential as a sustainable nature-based solution, but that potential is not commonly utilized in the Tropics. Constructed wetlands for improvement of water quality are cost-effective, offering affordable solutions for remediation in warm and tropical regions worldwide. The robustness, simplicity, and reliability of treatment wetlands provide efficient long-term operation.Wetlands for Remediation in the Tropics covers theory, provides case studies, and identifies gaps in our current understanding. It highlights why the Tropics differ from temperate regions in this context, particularly concerning differences in climate and species diversity and abundance. Urban, rural, and industrial examples are discussed across 11 chapters. These nature-based solutions, including the concept of ‘Sponge City’,can be applied to tropical areas worldwide and incorporated particularly in highly urbanized regions.The authors, from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, the USA, the Netherlands, Mexico, Pakistan, and Taiwan, all have substantial research experience using wetlands for remediation.The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners and government officials from developing countries, where scarce resources and a lack of a qualified workforce are common, but large differences exist in history, culture, regulations, climate, water fluctuations, and vegetation. Although ideas based on experiences from temperate regions can be applied, the Tropics require distinct approaches to developing constructed wetlands for remediation.

This edited volume provides a review of remediation approaches utilizing aquatic and wetland macrophytes in the Tropics. This form of phytotechnology has exceptional potential as a sustainable nature-based solution, but that potential is not commonly utilized in the Tropics. Constructed wetlands for improvement of water quality are cost-effective, offering affordable solutions for remediation in warm and tropical regions worldwide. The robustness, simplicity, and reliability of treatment wetlands provide efficient long-term operation.Wetlands for Remediation in the Tropics covers theory, provides case studies, and identifies gaps in our current understanding. It highlights why the Tropics differ from temperate regions in this context, particularly concerning differences in climate and species diversity and abundance. Urban, rural, and industrial examples are discussed across 11 chapters. These nature-based solutions, including the concept of ‘Sponge City’,can be applied to tropical areas worldwide and incorporated particularly in highly urbanized regions.The authors, from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, the USA, the Netherlands, Mexico, Pakistan, and Taiwan, all have substantial research experience using wetlands for remediation.The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners and government officials from developing countries, where scarce resources and a lack of a qualified workforce are common, but large differences exist in history, culture, regulations, climate, water fluctuations, and vegetation. Although ideas based on experiences from temperate regions can be applied, the Tropics require distinct approaches to developing constructed wetlands for remediation.

This book is the first volume of a compendium of the global distribution some 3500 aquatic macrophyte species occurring in inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies worldwide, highlighting aspects of their ecology including endemism, world rarity, ecozone/ macroregional occurrence, ploidy state, species age, uses, and endangered status. Although similar books exist for local regions (e.g., the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil) none provides complete and detailed information for macrophytes at global scale, so this book provides a novel resource on the distribution and ecology of macrophytes around the world.The Atlas fills a gap in scientific knowledge of the global ecology of an important group of aquatic plants. It highlights the expansion of invasive species and describes hotspots of endemism and rarity for freshwater macrophytes across the planet. The data included in this book range from karyological to biogeographical studies on macrophytes, within a general theme of understanding the environmental factors that drive the biodiversity, ecology, landscape genetics, and conservation of aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems. The first volume of the World Atlas of Freshwater Macrophytes: Dicotyledonous species I (Acanthaceae – Menyanthaceae) covers 33 botanical families and 760 species of aquatic macrophytes.The authors, based in Mexico, Scotland, Spain, and the USA are members of an informal international research network, set up in 2017 by retired aquatic botanist Kevin Murphy, which is dedicated to advancing macroecological knowledge of freshwater macrophytes in the inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies of worldwide wetland ecosystems.The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners in wetland management, decision makers, and aquatic plant hobbyists.

This book is the first volume of a compendium of the global distribution some 3500 aquatic macrophyte species occurring in inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies worldwide, highlighting aspects of their ecology including endemism, world rarity, ecozone/ macroregional occurrence, ploidy state, species age, uses, and endangered status. Although similar books exist for local regions (e.g., the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil) none provides complete and detailed information for macrophytes at global scale, so this book provides a novel resource on the distribution and ecology of macrophytes around the world.The Atlas fills a gap in scientific knowledge of the global ecology of an important group of aquatic plants. It highlights the expansion of invasive species and describes hotspots of endemism and rarity for freshwater macrophytes across the planet. The data included in this book range from karyological to biogeographical studies on macrophytes, within a general theme of understanding the environmental factors that drive the biodiversity, ecology, landscape genetics, and conservation of aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems. The first volume of the World Atlas of Freshwater Macrophytes: Dicotyledonous species I (Acanthaceae – Menyanthaceae) covers 33 botanical families and 760 species of aquatic macrophytes.The authors, based in Mexico, Scotland, Spain, and the USA are members of an informal international research network, set up in 2017 by retired aquatic botanist Kevin Murphy, which is dedicated to advancing macroecological knowledge of freshwater macrophytes in the inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies of worldwide wetland ecosystems.The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners in wetland management, decision makers, and aquatic plant hobbyists.

Mangroves are among the most productive and diverse ecosystems on Earth, providing a range of ecosystem services that benefit millions of people and support global sustainability goals. However, mangroves are also highly vulnerable to climatechange impacts, such as sea level rise, storms, salinity changes, and erosion, which threaten their survival and functionality. This book aims to provide researchers with the latest scientific knowledge and practical tools to understand, assess, and enhance the adaptation and resilience of mangroves to climate change. It covers topics such as mangrove ecology and distribution, mangrove ecosystem services and valuation, mangrove adaptation and resilience mechanisms and indicators, mangrove restoration and conservation strategies, mangrove governance and policy frameworks, and mangrove modelling and mapping approaches. The book also showcases case studies from different regions of the world, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of mangrove management in a changing world. The book is intended to serve as a valuable reference and resource for researchers, students, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone interested in mangrove science and management.

Mangroves are among the most productive and diverse ecosystems on Earth, providing a range of ecosystem services that benefit millions of people and support global sustainability goals. However, mangroves are also highly vulnerable to climatechange impacts, such as sea level rise, storms, salinity changes, and erosion, which threaten their survival and functionality. This book aims to provide researchers with the latest scientific knowledge and practical tools to understand, assess, and enhance the adaptation and resilience of mangroves to climate change. It covers topics such as mangrove ecology and distribution, mangrove ecosystem services and valuation, mangrove adaptation and resilience mechanisms and indicators, mangrove restoration and conservation strategies, mangrove governance and policy frameworks, and mangrove modelling and mapping approaches. The book also showcases case studies from different regions of the world, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of mangrove management in a changing world. The book is intended to serve as a valuable reference and resource for researchers, students, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone interested in mangrove science and management.

This book is the second volume of a compendium of the global distribution of some 3500 aquatic macrophyte species occurring in inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies worldwide, highlighting aspects of their ecology including endemism, world rarity, ecozone/ macroregional occurrence, ploidy state, species age, uses, and endangered status. This book provides a novel resource on the distribution and ecology of macrophytes around the world. The Atlas fills a gap in scientific knowledge of the global ecology of an important group of aquatic plants. It highlights the expansion of invasive species and describes hotspots of endemism and rarity for freshwater macrophytes across the planet. The data included in this book range from karyological to biogeographical studies on macrophytes, within a general theme of understanding the environmental factors that drive the biodiversity, ecology, landscape genetics, and conservation of aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems. The second volume of the World Atlas of Freshwater Macrophytes: Dicotyledonous species II (Molluginaceae – Tetrachondraceae) covers 21 botanical families and 824 species of aquatic macrophytes. The authors, based in Mexico, Scotland, Spain, and the USA are members of an informal international research network, set up in 2017 by retired aquatic botanist Kevin Murphy, which is dedicated to advancing macroecological knowledge of freshwater macrophytes in the inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies of worldwide wetland ecosystems. The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners in wetland management, decision makers, and aquatic plant hobbyists.

This book is the second volume of a compendium of the global distribution of some 3500 aquatic macrophyte species occurring in inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies worldwide, highlighting aspects of their ecology including endemism, world rarity, ecozone/ macroregional occurrence, ploidy state, species age, uses, and endangered status. This book provides a novel resource on the distribution and ecology of macrophytes around the world. The Atlas fills a gap in scientific knowledge of the global ecology of an important group of aquatic plants. It highlights the expansion of invasive species and describes hotspots of endemism and rarity for freshwater macrophytes across the planet. The data included in this book range from karyological to biogeographical studies on macrophytes, within a general theme of understanding the environmental factors that drive the biodiversity, ecology, landscape genetics, and conservation of aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems. The second volume of the World Atlas of Freshwater Macrophytes: Dicotyledonous species II (Molluginaceae – Tetrachondraceae) covers 21 botanical families and 824 species of aquatic macrophytes. The authors, based in Mexico, Scotland, Spain, and the USA are members of an informal international research network, set up in 2017 by retired aquatic botanist Kevin Murphy, which is dedicated to advancing macroecological knowledge of freshwater macrophytes in the inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies of worldwide wetland ecosystems. The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners in wetland management, decision makers, and aquatic plant hobbyists.

The diversity of wetland bio resources is crucial for addressing global challenges they face. Despite being vital for biodiversity, water quality and flood control, wetlands suffer from human-induced degradation. This compendium addresses conservation, policy, and technological strategies to safeguard wetlands. Climate change exacerbates threats, emphasizing the need for adaptation and mitigation measures. Recognizing wetlands' societal values, the book advocates for balanced conservation and utilization. Wetlands offer opportunities in agriculture, industry, and medicine. Their role in urban water management and biodiversity conservation is explored. The publication examines wetland fauna, their habitats, and ecological roles. Resource competition shapes wetland ecosystems' resilience and productivity. It serves as a comprehensive guide for conservation and restoration efforts, highlighting wetlands' diverse applications and their importance in addressing societal challenges. By doing so, it aids informed decision-making and fosters effective conservation actions.

This is the third of five volumes of a compendium of the global distribution of about 3571 aquatic macrophyte species occurring in inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies worldwide. In addition to descriptions and maps, the volumes together highlight aspects of their ecology such as endemism, world rarity, endangered status, ecozone/macroregional occurrence, ploidy state, species age, and uses. This book provides a novel resource on the distribution and ecology of macrophytes around the world. The Atlas fills a gap in scientific knowledge of the global ecology of an important group of aquatic plants. It highlights the expansion of invasive species and describes hotspots of endemism and rarity for freshwater macrophytes across the planet. The data included in this book range from karyology to biogeography, within a general theme of understanding the environmental factors that drive the biodiversity, ecology, landscape genetics, and conservation of aquatic plants in freshwater ecosystems. The third volume of the World Atlas of Freshwater Macrophytes: Monocotyledonous species I (Acoraceae – Cyperaceae) covers nine botanical families and 917 species of aquatic macrophytes.The authors, based in Mexico, Scotland, Spain, and the USA are members of an informal international research network, set up in 2017    by retired aquatic botanist Kevin Murphy, which is dedicated to advancing macroecological knowledge of freshwater macrophytes in the inland freshwater and brackish waterbodies of worldwide wetland ecosystems. The topic of this book is relevant not only to scholars and academics but also to practitioners in wetland management, decision makers, and aquatic plant hobbyists.

The book offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between aquatic birds and marine ecosystems highlighting the pivotal role seabirds play in maintaining ecological stability and enriching biodiversity. This book outlines the ecological significance of seabirds and their role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance by regulating competition, influencing fish and invertebrate populations, cycling nutrients. It also underscores their role as sensitive environmental bioindicators, offering valuable insights into the impacts of pollution, climate change, and habitat degradation. This book stresses the importance of strong conservation efforts protecting habitats, reducing threats, and engaging stakeholders to secure the long-term survival of aquatic birds. Comprehending the ecological obligations and perils that avian fauna encounter, the book calls for coordinated and lasting measures to safeguard their well-being and persistence.

Playing a critical role in both influencing climate change and mitigating its impacts, the world’s diverse wetlands have become one of the world’s most threatened ecosystems as unsustainable land-use practices coupled with irrational use of water have already resulted in large-scale wetlands loss and degradation.To develop sound management and conservation schemes to assure wetlands sustainability in the long term requires long-term understanding of wetlands ecology. Yet until now, long-term interdisciplinary research into these systems has been limited to only a few systems from tropical or temperate climates (such as the Florida Everglades, and Czech biosphere reserve). This new book adds to the existing wetlands literature, providing a unique reference in basic and applied Mediterranean wetland ecology, based on results from long-term interdisciplinary research at the RAMSAR and UNESCO Biosphere site, of Las Tablas de Daimiel, Spain.Dating back to the early 1990s the research highlights changes in the biotic and abiotic environment in response to cumulative anthropogenic stressors, and provide guidance on applying this understand to sound management and conservation. With particular relevance to researchers dealing with semi-arid wetlands in the Mediterranean and elsewhere, as well as to resource managers, the book discusses the complexity of the interacting abiotic and biotic environment across different spatial and temporal scales and across various levels of biological hierarchy is highlighted, and reveals how management based on poor knowledge causes more damage than repair.The book will be of interest to researchers interested in freshwater ecology, hydrobotany, hydrology, geology, biogeochemistry, landscape ecology and environmental management.

Despite our growing awareness of the vital role they play in the global environment, wetlands remain among the most endangered ecosystems on Earth and are still being destroyed and degraded at an alarming rate. This much-needed publication, which includes contributions from leading researchers and practitioners, presents a holistic perspective on the restoration of wetland ecosystems such as shallow lakes, streams, floodplains and bogs. Through the use of carefully chosen case studies, the authors examine European wetland restoration projects from Scandinavia to Bulgaria and from Ireland to Belarus, focusing on the lessons they can teach to a new generation of conservationists. As well as reviewing the sum of current knowledge on the subject, the text is a store of practical know-how, covering a wide range of conservation approaches and techniques. It analyzes the major problems in the field and identifies key principles for achieving sustainability in wetland restoration. The topics covered include: • the role of wetlands in landscape functioning • human interference with natural processes such as water and matter cycles and energy dissipation • the impact of land use on global problems such as climate change, floods and droughts • the role played by diversity in wetland functioning The work shows that without sustainable land use over the totality of their catchment areas, and without cohesive inter-agency cooperation, individual restoration projects will have a short life span. The balance between scientific background and practical restoration makes this book a valuable resource for scientists as well as wetland managers, decision makers and land use planners, as well as students of ecology, nature conservation and environmental protection.

Playing a critical role in both influencing climate change and mitigating its impacts, the world’s diverse wetlands have become one of the world’s most threatened ecosystems as unsustainable land-use practices coupled with irrational use of water have already resulted in large-scale wetlands loss and degradation.To develop sound management and conservation schemes to assure wetlands sustainability in the long term requires long-term understanding of wetlands ecology. Yet until now, long-term interdisciplinary research into these systems has been limited to only a few systems from tropical or temperate climates (such as the Florida Everglades, and Czech biosphere reserve). This new book adds to the existing wetlands literature, providing a unique reference in basic and applied Mediterranean wetland ecology, based on results from long-term interdisciplinary research at the RAMSAR and UNESCO Biosphere site, of Las Tablas de Daimiel, Spain.Dating back to the early 1990s the research highlights changes in the biotic and abiotic environment in response to cumulative anthropogenic stressors, and provide guidance on applying this understand to sound management and conservation. With particular relevance to researchers dealing with semi-arid wetlands in the Mediterranean and elsewhere, as well as to resource managers, the book discusses the complexity of the interacting abiotic and biotic environment across different spatial and temporal scales and across various levels of biological hierarchy is highlighted, and reveals how management based on poor knowledge causes more damage than repair.The book will be of interest to researchers interested in freshwater ecology, hydrobotany, hydrology, geology, biogeochemistry, landscape ecology and environmental management.

Despite our growing awareness of the vital role they play in the global environment, wetlands remain among the most endangered ecosystems on Earth and are still being destroyed and degraded at an alarming rate. This much-needed publication, which includes contributions from leading researchers and practitioners, presents a holistic perspective on the restoration of wetland ecosystems such as shallow lakes, streams, floodplains and bogs. Through the use of carefully chosen case studies, the authors examine European wetland restoration projects from Scandinavia to Bulgaria and from Ireland to Belarus, focusing on the lessons they can teach to a new generation of conservationists. As well as reviewing the sum of current knowledge on the subject, the text is a store of practical know-how, covering a wide range of conservation approaches and techniques. It analyzes the major problems in the field and identifies key principles for achieving sustainability in wetland restoration. The topics covered include: • the role of wetlands in landscape functioning • human interference with natural processes such as water and matter cycles and energy dissipation • the impact of land use on global problems such as climate change, floods and droughts • the role played by diversity in wetland functioning The work shows that without sustainable land use over the totality of their catchment areas, and without cohesive inter-agency cooperation, individual restoration projects will have a short life span. The balance between scientific background and practical restoration makes this book a valuable resource for scientists as well as wetland managers, decision makers and land use planners, as well as students of ecology, nature conservation and environmental protection.

They are: Ben Asper, Derek Bazen, Theo Bazen, Anthony Bougher, Gary Dietrich, Martine Desbureaux, Toby Nisbet, Kaylene Parker, Julie Pech, Karen Semeniuk, Trudi Semeniuk, Tony Smith, and Joy Unno. The people who assisted in preparing samples for laboratory analyses were Penny Clifford, Toby Nisbet, and Joy Unno.

The book addresses the interactions between wetlands and human health and well-being. A key feature is the linking of ecology-health and the targeting of practitioners and researchers. The environmental health problems of the 21st Century cannot be addressed by the traditional tools of ecologists or epidemiologists working in their respective disciplinary silos; this is clear from the emergence and re-emergence of public health and human well-being problems such as cholera pandemics, mosquito borne disease, and episodic events and disasters (e.g. hurricanes). To tackle these problems requires genuine cross-disciplinary collaboration; a key finding of the recently concluded Millennium Ecosystem Assessment when looking at human well-being and ecosystem health. This book brings the disciplines of ecology and health sciences closer to such a synthesis for researchers, teachers and policy makers interested in or needing information to manage wetlands and human health and well-being issues.