Hydrology

Definition

In the context of the Virtual Ecosystem, hydrology is defined as the distribution and movement of water both on and below the Earth’s surface as well as through organisms.

Water is crucial in an ecosystem for several reasons. It is essential for the survival of all living organisms, providing the medium for biochemical reactions and cellular processes. Further, water plays a key role in many ecosystem processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient cycling, and the decomposition of organic matter. Water facilitates the movement of nutrients and minerals within the soil which enables plant growth and maintains soil health. Aquatic environments, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, provide habitats for a wide range of species which supports biodiversity. Additionally, water bodies influence microclimates by regulating temperatures through heat absorption and release.

Implementation details

Hydrology only has a single implementation within the Virtual Ecosystem (the hydrology model). Details of the actual equations used to simulate hydrology are described in the relevant section of the “How it works” documentation

We also provide more detailed explanation of why hydrology matters to ecological modelling, This page provides an overview of the key factors influencing the hydrology of an ecosystem, the main processes that drive the hydrological cycle at local scale and catchment scale.