4.2 Aquatic Communities
groundwater recharge; regulation of stream temperature by providing shade; attenuation of storm fows (food control); carbon sequestration by mature woody vegetation; and increased stream habitat complexity by contributing woody debris. Tey also provide hab- itat for terrestrial wildlife species and serve as corridors for movement of terrestrial wildlife species (Seavy et al. 2009; NCWRC 2002; Wenger 1999) . Lack of sufcient vegetation or inadequate width of forested bufer contributes to rising water temperatures, especially where water depths are shallow enough that the entire water column is subject to solar heating. In addition to stabilizing streambanks, riparian vegetation serves as a food/nutrient input to the stream community and helps regulate stream temperature by providing shade. Water Quality. Erosion and the resultant sedimentation are the largest sources of non- point source pollution in most aquatic systems. Development activities and agriculture can be the most signifcant sources of erosion and sediment. Timber harvests and poorly constructed and maintained timber roads are additional sources of erosion if proper con- trols are not used and maintained. Increased stormwater runof will amplify the loading of nutrients, sediment, and contaminants into streams, rivers, and reservoirs. Te increased loads could afect water quality and habitat for aquatic species, as well as drinking water for municipalities. Stormwater controls and retrofts will become increasingly important (Band and Salvesen 2009) . Algal blooms are possible in these systems and can exacerbate DO problems, particularly when fows are low. Increased water temperature, resuspension of bottom sediment during storms, and increased nutrient content of freshwater and coastal waters can increase pathogen replication, persistence, survival, and transmission (DeWan et al. 2010; Karl et al. 2009; Band and Salvesen 2009; Holman et al. 2010) . Confned animal operations are common in the Coastal Plain ecoregion and may have signifcant impacts on water resources. Livestock access to streams contributes heavily to bank erosion, sedimentation, and nutrient input. Animal waste lagoon discharges are a potential source of contamination if not properly managed and maintained. Invasive Species . Te introduction of any invasive species is cause for concern and the prevalence of warmer water temperatures may increase the the presence of exotic species that were previously thought to be non-threatening because the winters were too cold for survival. Te Asian Clam is found in aquatic systems throughout the state; however, its efects on native mussels are largely unknown. Red Swamp Crawfsh are prevalent in the Coastal Plain and although efects on native crayfsh are not fully understood, it is likely that competition for resources such as food and space are potential impacts. Flathead Catfsh are a concern because of direct predation on native species.
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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