Limnology

Limnology is the study of inland waters, and includes the study of the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of still waters (lakes, ponds, rivers) and running waters (streams and rivers). It is an interdisciplinary field, drawing on the fields of ecology, hydrobiology, earth science, chemistry, physics, and geology. It is important for understanding how human activities, such as pollution and river channelization, affect aquatic ecosystems and their ability to provide clean water and important habitat for aquatic life. It is also used to understand the relationships between aquatic species, water quality, and human activities. Limnologists provide valuable information for making decisions about land use, resource management, and water conservation.