Functioning of Ecosystems at the Land–Ocean Interface

Abstract

In this volume, we have focused on a number of new perspectives in trying to understand the responses to changes in land–ocean interfaces. We have compiled a series of chapters that address some key aspects of coastal and estuarine ecosystem functioning. The research field is too large to be covered entirely. We have, therefore, decided to select a few topics that are illustrative of how estuarine and coastal ecosystems function. Although the chapters deal specifically with estuarine and coastal ecosystems, most of the concepts and conclusions apply to other interface ecosystems as well. Many of the tools (long-term monitoring, stable isotopes, and metabolic balances) or concepts (invading species, connectivity, and ecosystem engineering) have value beyond the systems being discussed here. All the chapters in this volume show that estuarine and coastal systems have their own peculiarities and characteristics and are different from the adjacent continental and marine systems.