A floodplain urban ecosystem consists of all the interacting living and nonliving entities in an area that has been modified by humans for settlement. The plants and animals raised by humans may not naturally occur in the area nor be adapted to seasonal flooding. However, some species of wild plants and animals have adapted to the open environment. The urban ecosystem includes human-made houses, factories, roads, floodwalls, and levees.
Human Interactions
Construction of paved roads, sidewalks, houses, and factories eliminates native habitat and leads to greater surface runoff. If not properly managed, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and domestic and industrial wastes may pollute groundwater and the river. Introducing plants and animals that compete with native species further alters the environment. Humans have also built levees and floodwalls to protect cities from flooding. These activities alter the river system in many ways.
Construction of paved roads, sidewalks, houses, and factories eliminates native habitat and leads to greater surface runoff. If not properly managed, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and domestic and industrial wastes may pollute groundwater and the river. Introducing plants and animals that compete with native species further alters the environment. Humans have also built levees and floodwalls to protect cities from flooding. These activities alter the river system in many ways.
