Stable isotope analyses for food web characterization in relation to hydrological alteration

Rivers provide important services to people in the form of agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. However, many of these benefits require dams and river control at the expense of natural systems. Rivers in Spain are of particular interest because globally Spain has the most dams per person. This project will look at the impacts of dams and river control on downstream ecosystems by modeling food webs with stable isotope analysis (effectively tracking nutrient signatures up the food chain). The findings of the project will contribute to a better understanding of the impacts of dams and river control and help inform better river management to maximize both the services that rivers provide and the ecosystems they support.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark Johnson

Student:

Partner:

University of Cantabria

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Water; Environmental Science and Technology; Green/Alternative Energy

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: