Ecological Responses to Flow Alteration: A Literature Review Within the Context of the Maryland Hydroecological Integrity Assessment

摘要

Literature on flow-ecology relationships, particularly as they relate to flow regime alteration from impoundments and water withdrawal, were reviewed within the context of management questions that guide Maryland's Hydroecological Integrity Assessment. Gaining insight into these questions by examining the success and shortcomings of past studies will help; 1) guide the monitoring and assessment of flow-ecology relationships, 2) interpret biological responses often influenced by multiple factors, 3) evaluate the efficacy of current flow-by standards, and 4) improve the tools available to water and natural resource managers used to conserve aquatic habitat and biota. Narrative and illustrative examples of hypothetical and empirical flow-ecology relationships are included to further elucidate probable biological responses to flow alteration.