Significance of Land-Water Interface (Reservoir Edge) for the Perpetuation of Fauna

Abstract

The standing water of a pool and the running water of a stream or river become the abode of a special group of flora and fauna. Diverse types of plants and animals find their habitat around the gently sloping soft edge of a waterbody. These plants give shelter and feed hundreds of tiny crustaceans, insects, worms, molluscs and vertebrates. As per the evolutionary history, terrestrial fauna evolved from its aquatic predecessors. Since the process of habitat transition was gradual, we find several animals wholly or partially, now-a-days dependent on land-water interface for sustenance and propagation. However, cementing of ponds and waterholes often disturbs the natural habitat of the water body and thereby leading to disruption in the life cycle of such animals. Lack of knowledge on their biology may lead to their expulsion as a result of negligent human intervention. In this paper, we discuss some of the faunal forms which are, either wholly or partially, dependent on land-water edge for survival and perpetuation. The stage in their life cycle during which they depend on the land-water edge and the apparent consequences they might face if the edge is disturbed by human interference have also been discussed here.