From meta-system theory to the sustainable management of rivers in the Anthropocene

Regional-scale ecological processes, such as the spatial flows of material, energy, and organisms, are fundamental for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in river networks. Yet these processes remain largely overlooked in most river management practices and underlying policies. Here, we propose adoption of a meta-system approach, where regional processes acting at different levels of ecological organization-populations, communities, and ecosystems-are integrated into conventional river conservation, restoration, and biomonitoring. We also describe a series of measurements and indicators that could be assimilated into the implementation of relevant biodiversity and environmental policies. Finally, we highlight the need for alternative management strategies that can guide practitioners toward applying recent advances in ecology to preserve and restore river ecosystems and the ecosystem services they provide, in the context of increasing alteration of river network connectivity worldwide.

Automated summary

Regional-scale ecological processes in river networks are fundamental for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, but are often overlooked in river management practices. A meta-system approach is proposed to integrate these processes into river conservation, restoration, and biomonitoring, with the implementation of relevant measurements and indicators. Alternative management strategies are needed to guide practitioners in applying recent advances in ecology to preserve and restore river ecosystems in the face of increasing alteration of river network connectivity worldwide.