In the decade since the first edition of this book was published
advances have been made in our knowledge of the fresh waters of the
world, espe- cially in understanding many of the processes involved in
their functioning as systems and in countering the problems created by
human activities. New problems too, many of an international nature,
have loomed during this period-of which global warming and the
acidification of fresh waters in many parts of the world are notable
examples. In addition, much has now been published concerning the
aquatic flora, fauna and ecology of previously poorly known geographic
areas, notably Australasia. The second edition of this book is a
revision which updates the text in the light of recent advances in our
knowledge of freshwater biology. Inevitably, in an elementary volume
such as this, the treatment of many of the basic principles and
processes remains the same. However, several new sections are included
covering a range of topics such as acid deposition and the acidification
process, bacterial decomposition and aquaculture. The book includes many
new references and suggestions for up-to-date reading in particular
topics. The objective of the second edition remains the same as that of
the first. It is intended as a basic introduction to the major aspects
of freshwater biology at a level suitable for undergraduates. It should
also prove useful, as apparently did the first edition, to professional
workers in related fields, e.g. water engineers and chemists,
aquaculturists and planners.
