A new ecohydrological approach for ecosystem service provision and sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems in Bangladesh

Ecohydrology provides a framework for aquatic ecosystem management based on the interplay between different biota and hydrology. Bangladesh being situated in the world's largest delta is suffering from rapid degradation of its aquatic ecosystems. The ever increasing population pressure and intensive agriculture together with diversion of upstream water flows by India and climate induced changes make this ecosystem even more vulnerable. Using information from diverse sources, this paper explores the current state of the art on aquatic ecosystems of Bangladesh, their management, key problems, and introduces a new ecohydrology-based management approach for sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems in the country. Integration of both physical measures and policy actions are indispensable for greater ecosystem service provision from country's aquatic ecosystems. A cross-disciplinary action plan and appropriate strategies to bring policies into action is also essential for the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems in the country.