Application of molecular tools in Ecohydrology

This paper presents synthetic knowledge about the usefulness of molecular methods for implementation of the Ecohydrology principles as a framework for scientific investigation and problem solving associated with deteriorating quality of freshwater. Genetic markers are indispensable in the early monitoring of threats, precise analysis of the cause-effect relationships between biotic and abiotic components of environment and, consequently, in developing methods to improve water quality and enhancing ecosystem carrying capacity. All these elements provide the methodological background of Ecohydrology, and were described based on a study of the problem of water blooms dominated by toxic cyanobacteria.