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6710838 
Journal Article 
Review 
Salinity impacts on river ecosystem processes: a critical mini-review 
Berger, E; Frör, O; Schäfer, RB 
2018 
1 
Royal Society of London. Philosophical Transactions B. Biological Sciences
ISSN: 1471-2970 
374 
1764 
English 
30509912 
WOS:000452163200009 
In many dry parts of the world, salinization of water resources threatens freshwater biodiversity and the livelihood of people. However, ecological impact studies remain scarce. Here, we review field-observations of salinity impacts on ecosystem processes such as leaf decomposition, metabolism, biomass production and nutrient cycling, with a special emphasis on dryland ecosystems. In addition, we discuss the potential linkages of these processes to ecosystem service delivery-the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems-as additional nature conservation arguments and the challenges associated with this endeavour.This article is part of the theme issue 'Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects'.