Ten basic issues in the formation of reservoir ecology

Zhang Yunchang; Wang Jianhua

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1000-1123.2024.24.007

Abstract：Currently,China has built more than 95,000 reservoirs. As a unique freshwater ecosystem with semi artificial and semi natural features,the reservoir becomes a key component and node of watershed ecosystems while supporting regional economic and social development. Systematic research on ecological characteristics of a reservoir is still under the initial stage,and lacks of basic theoretical support to answer and solve practical problems for ecological protection and restoration. Thus,formation of a systematic theory for reservoir ecology turns to be a necessity. Discussions are made on the significance and ten basic issues related to formation of reservoir ecology,including reservoir ecosystem,classification,hydrodynamics,scheduling,sedimentation,nutrient level,ecosystem evolution,functions of water resources and ecosystem services,ecosystem protection and restoration,and reservoir-river relationship. Scientific classification of reservoirs shall be the foundation,and hydrodynamic mechanism of reservoirs shall be the core of reservoir ecology research. The study in the future should be carried out on the basis of historical data,continuous on-site investigation and monitoring,through analysis of evolution of reservoir ecosystem,and reveal of relationship between water and sediment,temperature and dissolved oxygen condition,nutrient changes and their impact mechanisms on biological communities under the construction and operation of reservoirs,by focusing on hydrodynamic mechanism,in order to provide theoretical guidance for reservoir operation and ecosystem protection and restoration.