4. Aquatic habitats in Amazonia

Abstract

Different existing concepts for the classification of Amazonian waterbodies are discussed. An additional approach is suggested to characterize aquatic habitats, based on hydrological and morphological parameters. The state of knowledge about the frequency, distribution and ecology of aquatic habitats is discussed. Human impacts on aquatic habitats in Amazonia and their vulnerability to them are evaluated. © 1983 IUCN.