River ecosystem processes: A synthesis of approaches, criteria of use and sensitivity to environmental stressors

River ecosystems are subject to multiple stressors that affect their structure and functioning. Ecosystem structure refers to characteristics such as channel form, water quality or the composition of biological communities, whereas ecosystem functioning refers to processes such as metabolism, organic matter decomposition or secondary production. Structure and functioning respond in contrasting and complementary ways to environmental stressors. Moreover, assessing the response of ecosystem functioning to stressors is critical to understand the effects on the ecosystem services that produce direct benefits to humans. Yet, there is more information on structural than on functional parameters, and despite the many approaches available to measure river ecosystem processes, structural approaches are more widely used, especially in management. One reason for this discrepancy is the lack of synthetic studies analyzing river ecosystem functioning in a way that is useful for both scientists and managers. Here, we present a synthesis of key river ecosystem processes, which provides a description of the main characteristics of each process, including criteria guiding their measurement as well as their respective sensitivity to stressors. We also discuss the current limitations, potential improvements and future steps that the use of functional measures in rivers needs to face.Science of The Total Environment (2017), 596-597: 465-48

Jornada de Colaboración Científica en Seguridad y Defensa

Datos técnicos: 340 minutos, color, español. Ficha técnica: Gabinete de Presidencia CSIC y Departamento de Comunicación. Emitido en directo el 31 mayo 2023El Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) organiza una JORNADA DE COLABORACIÓN CIENTÍFICA EN SEGURIDAD Y DEFENSA el próximo día 31 de mayo. En este evento se buscará potenciar las colaboraciones del CSIC en las áreas de seguridad y defensa con socios y colaboradores externos públicos y privados. La Jornada se dividirá en cuatro cápsulas en las que investigadores presentarán la investigación que se hace en el Consejo en seguridad digital y globalizada; sensores, vigilancia y teledetección para la defensa; riesgos biológicos; y las oportunidades de financiación en proyectos colaborativos competitivos. Finalizará con un coloquio en el que diversos actores debatirán sobre el avance científico en defensa y seguridad y su impacto social.Peer reviewe