Freshwater Ecology Lecture 2

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to freshwater ecology, their definitions, and concepts from the lecture.

Hydrology

The study of the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth.

Hydrophytic Vegetation

Plants that are adapted to grow in saturated soil or a water environment.

Limnology

The study of inland aquatic systems including lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

Dead Zones

Areas in aquatic ecosystems that are depleted of oxygen, resulting in the death of marine life.

Inundated

To be flooded or to overflow, often in the context of water saturating soil.

Lentic

Describes still waters such as lakes and ponds.

Lotic

Describes flowing waters such as rivers and streams.

Thermal Characteristics

Factors affecting water temperature that influence biological processes and organism distribution.

Capillary Action

The ability of water to move in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces due to its adhesive properties.

Ecosystem Function

The role and activities of different elements within an ecosystem that contribute to its stability and health.

Water Quality Restoration

Efforts and methods used to improve the quality of water in ecosystems that have been degraded.