Energy balance of streams
Water temperature is one important factor for the Biosphere and all aquatic organisms. As the amount of dissolved oxygen drops below normal levels in water bodies, the water quality is harmed. This may lead to lethal conditions for most of the aquatic organisms.Water temperature mainly results from the water temperature of the source, from the energy balance of the stream and the ground water exchange. The main components of the energy balance of streams are the radiation balance and the latent heat. The radiation balance is strongly influenced by the surrounding morphology and vegetation.Riparian vegetation may for instance strongly reduce the heating of the stream.