Ecology and Biodiversity

In broad terms, Ecology is the scientific study of how organisms interact with each other and with their environment.

Biodiversity is the variety of organisms found in a particular environment. It is  affected by the characteristics of this environment, such as nutrient concentrations, temperature, water flow, and shelter. Only those best adapted to these conditions, and best able to use the available resources, will thrive. Interactions between organisms also matter, as predation and competition for resources (e.g., food, habitat) affect species abundance and diversity. In turn, the organisms in an environment can influence some aspects of their environment.

Understanding aquatic ecosystems and the interaction between organisms and their environment can help manage human effects better.

This chapter covers mainly aquatic ecosystems in the Orange-Senqu River basin. The topics are:

• The principles of aquatic ecology and the aquatic ecosystems of the Orange-Senqu River basin
• The importance and functions of wetlands and their distribution in the Orange-Senqu River basin
• Biodiversity (endemic species and the threat from alien invasive species),The principles laid out in the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment and the nature and importance of ecosystem goods and services.

Orange River at Upington.

Source:Paffy 2006

( click to enlarge )