estuarine ecology的意思|示意

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Estuarine ecology is a field of study focused on the biological, chemical, physical and geological characteristics of a body of water that is partially influenced by the ocean and fresh water. Estuarine ecology encompasses both natural ecological processes and human-induced alterations of these processes.

In an estuarine system, saltwater and freshwater mix and create a unique habitat for plants, animals and microorganisms. The saltwater in an estuary comes from either seawater from the ocean or from other sources such as from salinity intrusion from nearby rivers. An estuary has a tide-controlled circulation , which is affected by the ocean’s tide and is affected by the input of freshwater from rivers and streams.

Estuarine ecology is therefore concerned with the study of the organisms, their distribution and population dynamics in these physical and chemical environments. It also encompasses the study of the effects of human activities on estuarine systems, such as land reclamation, dam building, shipping and discharge of pollutants.

Understanding the biological, chemical and physical processes that occur in estuaries is important in order to protect and restore these habitats. Management and conservation efforts must consider the complex interactions between the different components of an estuary, including the physical and chemical environment, the ecological processes and the human activities. Estuarine ecology also helps to inform decision-making processes that relate to coastal management, such as water quality, fisheries management, and port and harbor development.