Limnology (from the Greek: limne – lakes; logos – study) is a multidisciplinary science that studies inland freshwaters, such as lakes, lagoons, rivers, streams, reservoirs, and wetlands. It comprises chemistry, hydrography, geology, ecology, among other approaches, to address aquatic environments. Early limnologic studies focused on the description of functional patterns – such as nutrient cycling, thermal stratification and chemistry of water bodies. However, the discipline advanced during the past decades to also attempt to understand the processes that underpin the existing patterns. Currently, Limnology also works at the interface between science and society, being relevant to mediate socioeconomic problems caused by the multiple uses of water.
