Beavers, large members of the rodent family in North America, are often referred to as
"ecosystem/keystone engineers" by wildlife managers. Ecosystem engineers are described as animals that create, alter, or destroy a habitat. Beavers contribute to river ecosystems by bringing down old and dead trees along riverbanks. They use these trees to make their dams. Although these dams are primarily used for protection and food storage, scientists report that these dams change the surrounding environment in different ways.
One of the most significant impacts of beaver dams is their ability to create wetlands. By slowing down the flow of water and trapping sediment behind their dams, beavers create areas of standing water that become important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. These wetlands provide breeding grounds for amphibians, waterfowl, and fish, as well as a source of food for many other animals.
Additionally, the creation of beaver dams can help to improve water quality by filtering out pollutants and sediment from the water. The slowing down of the water flow also helps to reduce erosion and minimize the risk of flooding downstream.
Overall, beavers play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining healthy river ecosystems. By creating wetlands and altering the flow of water, they provide essential habitats for a diverse array of plants and animals, contributing to the overall health and stability of the ecosystem.