Alpine aquatic ecosystem conservation policy in a changing climate

摘要: Abstract Freshwater ecosystems are often of high conservation value, yet many have been degraded significantly by direct anthropogenic impacts and further threatened global environmental change. Traditionally, science policy has promoted principles based on preservation restoration paradigms, which linked to assumptions stationarity uniformitarianism. Adaptation requires new approaches flexibility, iterativity, non-linearity, redundancy. Many alpine river networks represent near natural, pristine systems important biodiversity ‘hotspots’ European freshwater fauna. However, there remains a lack guidance strategies under changing climate at EU, regional local levels. A critical evaluation current adaptation governance frameworks was undertaken with relation predicted change ecosystems. Case studies presented from two zones in mainland Europe (the Pyrenees the Swiss Alps). The complexity hydrological regimes, habitat biota both case study regions suggests that legislative mechanisms, frame approaches, need be realigned. In particular, shift focus species-centric more holistic ecosystem functioning is proposed. methodological approach set out may help conservationists resource managers prioritise their efforts, better predict future biotic responses ecological baseline conditions. Due limited potential for preventative intervention these systems, should on: (i) maintenance enhancement connectivity within between basins (ii) control reduction additional stressors.