Principles of Wetland Hydrology

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Principles that demonstrate the importance of hydrology in wetlands (reprinted from Mitsch and Gosselink, 1993)
To learn about Professor Mitsch's work, click here!!

1. Hydrology leads to a unique vegetation composition but can limit or enhance species richness.
2. Primary productivity and other ecosystem functions in wetlands are often enhanced by flowing conditions and a pulsing hydroperiod and are often depressed by stagnant conditions.
3. Accumulation of organic material in wetlands is controlled by hydrology through its influence on primary productivity, decomposition, and export of particulate organic matter.
4. Nutrient cycling and nutrient availability are both significantly influenced by hydrologic conditions.