Ecology of Baltic Coastal Waters

Here is the first comprehensive overview covering the enormous ecological diversity of Baltic coastal ecosystems. A short introduction to the Baltic Sea as an ecosystem is followed by detailed descriptions of the characteristics of coastal ecosystems. Ecological case studies illustrate reactions to natural and anthropogenic influences in four regions: Southern Baltic coast, including Fj?rden, Boddens, Lagoons, and near shore zones; Eastern Baltic coast, including the Gulf of Gdansk and Gulf of Riga; Northeastern Baltic coast, including the Neva Estuary and Gulf of Finland; and the Western Baltic coast, including the Stockholm Archipelago, Ask? area and Himmerfj?rden, Odense Fjord, and Kerteminde Fjord/Kertinge Nor. This volume also presents a synthesis of the common and distinguishing characteristics and processes of the coastal waters compared with the Baltic proper. Finally, the authors highlight areas where additional research is needed and provide forecasts of future developments in coastal research.