3.3: Ecosystem Ecology
- Page ID
- 175771
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Introduction
In semi-urban areas, beavers (Castor canadensis) are considered a nuisance as their dams block drainage pipes and cause flooding. However, in wild areas beavers are one of the most important species. Beaver dams are known for altering the flow of water. However, these dams not only slow down the movement of water, but they spread and store water in a way that is much more efficient than human-made dams. In addition, they slow and spread sediment and nutrients as they move through watersheds. What this does is create a mosaic of habitats across a landscape, both aquatic and terrestrial. More habitats lead to more species, both for plants and animals. In this way, beavers act as ecosystem engineers, to create ecosystems, one stick at a time.
