Ecohydrology in South America and the Caribbean: A summary of research and coordination activities [1996-2001]

Ecohydrology research projects undertaken, within the framework of the International Hydrological Programme, in Latin America and the Caribbean are presented, together with contact details of the participants. These include investigations by national research organizations in Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil, as well as collaborative projects involving Brazilian researchers and colleagues from Germany, France, Canada and USA. Details of other German, French and USA projects undertaken in the region are also given. The regional co-ordination of ecohydrology projects, undertaken by the author in co-operation with a working group with members from Argentina, Cuba,. Guatemala, Guyana and Paraguay has involved participation in international meetings, contributions to conference proceedings and involvement of research workers from Latin America in a UNESCO IHP V advanced study course in ecohydrology. Budget constraints and other factors limited or precluded research institutes in several countries in the region from participating more fully in the 1996-2001 programme. However, it is hoped that a more comprehensive and better integrated series of ecohydrological research projects will be undertaken during phase 2. It is anticipated that this will lead to a deeper knowledge of the aquatic ecosystems of the Latin America / Caribbean region and to sustainable development of its natural resources through application of ecohydrological principles.