Stream Ecology Concepts and Terminology

The lecture provides an overview of stream ecology, highlighting the importance and uses of streams, their ecological complexity, and their interconnections with terrestrial systems. It discusses the rarity of streams, their global impact, and various types of streams and their characteristics. The concept of stream order and drainage basins is explained, along with the features of streams and the impact of human modifications.

What was the initial plan for the stream ecology course before it was modified due to COVID-19?

• To conduct extensive fieldwork

• To focus on laboratory experiments

• To include more guest lectures

• To be entirely online

Which of the following is NOT a reason why streams are important?

• Fishing

• Mining

• Pollution removal

• Desertification

What does the term 'ecology' mean in the context of stream ecology?

• Study of organisms

• Study of homes

• Study of plants

• Study of water bodies

Which of the following is a primary producer in stream food webs?

• Fish

• Bacteria

• Birds

• Spiders

Why are streams considered highly variable?

• They change appearance and structure over time

• They are only found in specific regions

• They are always the same throughout the year

• They have a constant flow

What percentage of the Earth's surface water is readily available freshwater?

• 70%

• 2.5%

• 0.5%

• 1%

What is a 'thalweg' in the context of stream terminology?

• The highest point in a stream

• The deepest point in a flowing channel

• The width of the stream

• The length of the stream

How are streams classified by order?

• By their length

• By their width

• By the number of tributaries

• By their depth

What is a 'riffle' in a stream?

• A wide, shallow area

• A stagnant pool

• A fast-moving area with exposed rocks

• A deep, slow-moving area

What is the primary goal of a farm ditch?

• To move water off the landscape

• To store water

• To prevent soil erosion

• To create a habitat for fish