UNIT 5 Ecosystems Natural Science 2. Secondary Education RIVERS.
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Transcript of UNIT 5 Ecosystems Natural Science 2. Secondary Education RIVERS.
UNIT
5 Ecosystems
Natural Science 2. Secondary Education
RIVERS
UNIT
5
Natural Science 2. Secondary Education
Rivers• Rivers are ecosystems that are defined by the movement of water. There are two different river zones:
• The upstream portion of the river, where there is a turbulent flow of water. Animals with more hydrodynamic shapes, which are therefore better able to swim, inhabit this area.
• The midstream and downstream area of the river, where animals are adapted to this zone’s characteristic warmer and slower moving water.
Otters are very hydrodynamic, an adaptation to fast river currents.
Perches are adapted to the slow moving water of the midstream and downstream zones.
Biodiversity in rivers
Otter
Kingfisher
Dragonfly
Water snake
Diving beetle
Trout
White-throated dipper
Freshwater mussel
Commonfrog
Iberian newt
Caddisfly
Crayfish
UNIT
5
Natural Science 2. Secondary Education
Rivers
• Rivers are very important because:• They are rich in biodiversity.• They are a source of energy (as they can be used to produce
hydroelectrical power). • They deposit sediment and nutrients that help maintain coastal
ecosystems.
Why rivers are important
Land located downstream of rivers is very fertile because of the sediments deposited by these bodies of water.
UNIT
5
Natural Science 2. Secondary Education
Rivers