The foundations of stream ecology

Ecologists engaged in the study of running waters have developed a number of conceptual models whose purpose is to synthesize empirical information that describes structure, function, and processes of lotic ecosystems over their enormous range of natural variations. Such models are of great value in organizing what might otherwise be a collection of seemingly unique case studies into a broader understanding based on unifying principles. They gain power and acceptance from their ability to predict outcomes in new settings and explain differences observed among, for example, streams of differing discharge or occurring in different landscape and climatic settings. Models occasionally are proven inadequate, but exceptions also can strengthen models by revealing needed extensions.