Riverine systems are the most important source of potable surface waters for human beings and other animals that inhabit this planet. Despite this, very few books have been written concerning the species that form the ecosystems through which nutrients and energies are transferred. It is the functioning of those ecosystems that maintains the quality of water suitable for the use of those organisms. This series brings together information on primary and secondary production, detritus processing, species found and their distribution, by focusing on the whole community and how it functions, not omitting how human usage has affected these ecosystems. This series of books should be valuable to students and researchers on the structure and factors affecting the functioning of ecosystems in riverine systems. For the planner and the conservationist, the information contained within offers an opportunity for sustainable, correct management of development near riverine and estuary systems.