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Small hydropower plants affect aquatic community diversity: A longitudinal study under ecological flow.
Xinxin Qi1, Zongwei Lin1, Huimin Gao1
1Department of Geography and Spatial Information Techniques, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China.
Journal of Environmental Management
|November 3, 2024
Summary
Small hydropower plants (SHPs) disrupt river ecosystems. This study reveals SHP operations alter algal communities through hydrological changes and interspecific interactions, highlighting the need for ecological flow management.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Hydropower Engineering
Background:
- Small hydropower plants (SHPs) are vital for clean energy but impact river ecosystems.
- Previous research highlights dewatering impacts, often neglecting ecological flow effects.
- Riverine algal communities are sensitive indicators of hydrological alterations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of SHP operations on riverine algal communities.
- To assess these effects under ecological flow and intensive exploitation conditions.
- To identify key drivers influencing algal community structure and traits.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of algal species and traits composition across different river sections.
- Utilized multiple linear regression models to determine influencing factors.
- Focused study on the Oujiang river basin, known for prevalent SHPs.
Main Results:
- SHP operations significantly altered hydrological and physicochemical conditions in reservoir sections.
- Distinct differences in algal community composition and traits were observed due to SHP impacts.
- Physicochemical factors were identified as the primary drivers of algal diversity indices.
Conclusions:
- SHP operations indirectly impact algal communities via interspecific interactions, notably with macroinvertebrates.
- Effective governance and enforcement are crucial for ensuring adequate ecological flow releases from SHPs.
- Addressing SHP impacts on riverine ecosystems is critical amidst growing environmental and climate challenges.
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