Research Publications: UM-SG-RS-2010-08

Share:

Title:

Rising stream and river temperatures in the United States.

Year:

2010

Authors:

Kaushal, SS; Likens, GE; Jaworski, NA; Pace, ML; Sides, AM; Seekell, D; Belt, KT; Secor, DH; Wingate, RL

Source:

Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment
8 ( 9 ) : 461 - 466

DOI:

10.1890/090037

Abstract:

Water temperatures are increasing in many streams and rivers throughout the US. We analyzed historical records from 40 sites and found that 20 major streams and rivers have shown statistically significant, long-term warming. Annual mean water temperatures increased by 0.009-0.077 degrees C yr-1, and rates of warming were most rapid in, but not confined to, urbanizing areas. Long-term increases in stream water temperatures were typically correlated with increases in air temperatures. If stream temperatures were to continue to increase at current rates, due to global warming and urbanization, this could have important effects on eutrophication, ecosystem processes such as biological productivity and stream metabolism, contaminant toxicity, and loss of aquatic biodiversity.

Related Research Project(s) Funded by Maryland Sea Grant:

Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s):

'Related Research Project(s)' link to details about research projects funded by Maryland Sea Grant that led to this publication. These details may include other impacts and accomplishments resulting from the research.

'Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s)' links to related pages on the Maryland Sea Grant website.

The Blue Crab: Callinectes Sapidus

An essential resource for researchers, students, and managers.  Get your copy today!

pile of cooked crabs