Freshwater ecology deals with the study of ecosystems that encompass rivers, lakes, and wetlands. These aquatic environments are essential for the existence of countless species and provide critical ecological services.

Rivers are dynamic watercourses that serve as important connectors between land and water. They transport sediments, nutrients, and organic matter downstream, influencing the quality and productivity of downstream habitats. Rivers support diverse fish populations, including migratory species, aquatic invertebrates, and a range of riparian vegetation. Humans have utilized rivers for transportation, energy generation, and irrigation for centuries.

Lakes are large bodies of standing water that vary in size, depth, and productivity. They can be classified into different types based on their nutrient content and productivity levels. Lakes are characterized by stratification, with distinct thermal layers forming during warmer months. They support diverse aquatic communities, including fish, zooplankton, phytoplankton, macrophytes, and benthic organisms. Lakes are crucial for drinking water supply, recreational activities, and serve as important research sites for studying limnology.

Wetlands are transitional ecosystems found between terrestrial and aquatic environments. They exhibit water-saturated soils that promote specific vegetation adapted to these conditions. Wetlands provide essential ecosystem services, such as nutrient retention, water filtration, and flood control. They are renowned for their high biodiversity, supporting various plant communities, birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and numerous invertebrates. Protecting wetlands is crucial for conserving water resources, supporting migratory bird populations, and mitigating climate change impacts.

Freshwater ecology emphasizes the need for conservation and sustainable management of these vital ecosystems. Human activities, including pollution, habitat destruction, overfishing, and alteration of the natural flow regime, pose significant threats to freshwater biodiversity. To ensure the survival and health of these ecosystems, it is important to implement measures for water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and the prevention of invasive species introductions.