Author Correspondence author
Biological Evidence, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 4 doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0019
Received: 24 Jun., 2024 Accepted: 03 Aug., 2024 Published: 16 Aug., 2024
Zhu D., and Yu S.S., 2024, Building ecosystems: the transformative role of beavers, Bioscience Evidence, 14(4): 172-183 (doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0019)
Beavers (Castor fiber and Castor canadensis) are renowned ecosystem engineers whose activities significantly transform river corridors and wetlands. This study synthesizes current knowledge on the transformative role of beavers in ecosystem engineering, focusing on their impacts on hydrology, geomorphology, biogeochemistry, and biodiversity. Beaver dam construction alters water flow, increases surface and subsurface water storage, and modifies nutrient cycling, leading to enhanced habitat complexity and biodiversity. This study highlights the dual nature of beaver impacts, including both positive effects such as increased habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity, and negative consequences like localized flooding and vegetation death. The findings underscore the importance of considering beaver activities in river management and restoration practices to harness their ecosystem services while mitigating potential conflicts. This study aims to inform future research and management strategies as beaver populations continue to expand globally.
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. Dan Zhu
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