SeepÖkosystemen

SeepÖkosystemen, also known as seep ecosystems or seepage ecosystems, are a type of aquatic environment characterized by the slow release of groundwater or subsurface water into a surface body of water. This seepage can occur along the shores of lakes, rivers, or wetlands, or in the form of springs. The defining feature is the continuous, albeit often slow, influx of water from below, which influences the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the ecosystem.

These ecosystems are often cooler and more nutrient-rich than the surrounding surface water due to the groundwater's origin. The consistent water flow can prevent stagnation and create unique habitats. SeepÖkosystemen can support specialized plant communities adapted to saturated soils and specific water chemistry. These plants, in turn, provide food and shelter for a diverse array of invertebrates and vertebrates, including amphibians, fish, and insects.

The water chemistry of seepÖkosystemen is highly dependent on the geology of the surrounding area, with dissolved minerals and ions from the subsurface influencing pH, conductivity, and nutrient levels. This variability leads to a wide range of seep types, from acidic seeps to alkaline ones. Conservation of seepÖkosystemen is important because they can act as important refugia for biodiversity, especially during dry periods, and contribute to overall water quality by filtering and moderating water flow.