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This comprehensive introduction to stream ecology explores the fundamental concepts of aquatic ecosystems, focusing on the hydrologic cycle, including evaporation and precipitation, and their roles in shaping lakes, rivers, and streams. Key topics include functional feeding groups of invertebrates, the dynamics of stream food webs, and the importance of riparian plants and leaf litter. The text also covers the characteristics of headwaters, mid-order streams, and large rivers, highlighting the interactions among shredders, collectors, grazers, and the presence of phytoplankton.
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Introduction to Stream Ecology Compiled by: Angie Moline, Colorado State University GK-12 Program
Hydrologic Cycle Evaporation Precipitation Lakes/Rivers Runoff Ocean Groundwater
Stream Food Webs Riparian plants Leaf Litter Fish Predator Grazer Algae & Leaves
River Continuum Concept • Headwaters Streams • heavily shaded, leaf litter is important • shredders / collectors are abundant • Mid-order Streams • less shaded, algae more important • grazers abundant • Large Rivers • not shaded, phytoplankton present • collectors important
