In the decade since the first edition of this book was published advances have been made in our knowledge of the fresh waters of the world, espe- cially in understanding many of the processes involved in their functioning as systems and in countering the problems created by human activities. New problems too, many of an international nature, have loomed during this period-of which global warming and the acidification offresh waters in many parts of the world are notable examples. In addition, much has now been published concerning the aquatic flora, fauna and ecology of previously poorly...