Characterization of the reservoir ecosystem.

Abstract

Reservoirs are greatly influenced by tributary inflows and their water quality conditions reflect geographical, climatic and watershed characteristics. The occurrence of density currents, sedimentation and mixing, and the fact that reservoirs often exhibit a long, narrow morphology frequently lead to the establishment of distinct longitudinal gradients in water quality characteristics. Described in this chapter are processes and physical characteristics of importance in the establishment of longitudinal gradients in reservoirs. -from Authors