Application of ecological theory to determining recovery potential of disturbed lotic ecosystems: Research needs and priorities |
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Authors: | James A Gore John R Kelly J David Yount |
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Institution: | (1) The Center for Field Biology, Austin Peay State University, P.O. Box 4718, 37044 Clarksville, Tennessee, USA;(2) Ecosystems Research Center (ERC), Cornell University, 14853 Ithaca, New York, USA;(3) Environmental Research Laboratory-Duluth, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 55804 Duluth, Minnesota, USA |
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Abstract: | This article summarizes the views of aquatic scientists who gathered to assess the ability of stream ecosystem theory to predict
recovery from disturbance. Two views of disturbance were evident: a discrete removal of organisms vs an unusual deviation
from normal. These were perceived as applying to different scales and/or objectives. Long-term information is required from
both points of view to define recovery. Recovery also may be defined in different ways, but it is clear that recovery has
both spatial and temporal components, and includes both physical and biological processes. Consensus was very strong that
a major role (and challenge) for theory lies in the understanding of spatial aspects, temporal scales, coupling of physics
and biology, and the interaction of these features in recovery processes. Some progress is evident in the articles of this
volume, but among the topics identified as critical for further theoretical contributions were: homogeneous vs heterogeneous
distribution of disturbance, local extent of disturbance relative to a regional context, critical vs noncritical patches (size
and location) of disturbance at different spatial scales and temporal frequencies, delineation of reversible and nonreversible
processes, and physical and biological constraints on the time frame for recovery. Such concepts need attention across different
types of lotic ecosystems. Thus, there was strong consensus that a national monitoring system of representative lotic ecosystems
within ecological regions be established. The purpose of this monitoring system would be to acquire long-term data on natural
variability, to establish viable indicators of spatial and temporal aspects of recovery, and to develop and test emerging
theoretical developments. |
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Keywords: | Disturbance Recovery Prediction Lotic ecosystems Research needs |
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