The Abiotic Frame and Adaptations to Cope with Abiotic Constraints

Abstract This chapter draws up the abiotic frame for organisms set by the physical and chemical properties of a specific ecosystem. The abiotic frame is a combination of several features, including wind, turbulence, temperature and light, but also by nutrient status, pH and oxygen supply. Based on this abiotic frame, large-scale movements, as well as stratification phenomena of lakes are discussed. The importance of the surrounding land, that is, the catchment area, is stressed; specifically, how the catchment area may strongly affect the physical and chemical features of the lake or pond. In addition, this chapter explains how lakes and ponds have been, and still are, formed in the landscape and how organisms handle the abiotic frame.