Distribution of freshwaters in Great Britain

The object of this study is to estimate from the examination of maps the numbers, distribution and size of the lakes, reservoirs and rivers in Great Britain. The study was undertaken to provide a framework for the systematic analysis of data on freshwater ecosystems. A coded checklist of animals ocCurring in freshwater in the British Isles has already been published (Maitland, 1977). The detailed procedures used in the map analyses and checks on the effects of map scale on which waters are included are considered separately for standing and running waters. The overall extent and distribution of lakes, reservoirs and rivers are then reviewed in the third chapter. Almost all statistical data relating to water in Britain are tabulated in terms of Hydrometric Areas (Water Resources Board, 1974) and this practice has been followed here (see Figure 1). We would like to thank Miss Zana Juppenplatz and Mr Mervin Hutchinson for their valuable assistance with the map searches