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Trend, variability or extreme event? The importance of long‐term perspectives in river ecology
Author(s) -
Reid Michael A.,
Ogden Ralph W.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
river research and applications
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.679
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1535-1467
pISSN - 1535-1459
DOI - 10.1002/rra.903
Subject(s) - ecology , temporal scales , perspective (graphical) , river ecosystem , term (time) , climate change , environmental science , ecosystem , geography , computer science , biology , physics , quantum mechanics , artificial intelligence
Temporal variability at extra‐annual scales is typically a feature of freshwater ecosystems, particularly in places like Australia where the climate is highly unpredictable and where recent anthropogenic changes have been dramatic. Accounting for this variability when studying freshwater systems is generally not possible if freshwater ecologists rely solely on measurements carried out in the course of studies that rarely exceed a few years in length. Alternative methods can be used to extend temporal perspective; however, we argue these are under‐utilised in river ecology. This paper outlines approaches for extending temporal perspective (historical studies, palaeolimnological studies and modelling) and illustrates, using pertinent examples, areas of river ecology where we believe they can be of particular use. We conclude with some suggestions for ways in which cooperation between relevant disciplines can be enhanced. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.