How does water quality affect aquatic ecosystems?
An ecosystem is a community of organisms – plants, animals, fungi and bacteria – interacting with one another and with the environment in which they live. Protecting aquatic ecosystems is in many ways as important as maintaining water quality, for the following reasons: • Aquatic ecosystems are an integral part of our environment. They need to be maintained if the environment is to continue to support people. World conservation strategies stress the importance of maintaining healthy ecosystems and genetic diversity. • Aquatic ecosystems play an important role in maintaining water quality and are a valuable indicator of water quality and the suitability of the water for other uses. • Aquatic ecosystems are valuable resources. Aquatic life is a major source of protein for humans. In most countries, including Australia, commercial and sport fishing is economically important.
