Ecological impacts of waterwheel deployment on river ecosystems: A mini review

Md Basar, Mohd Farriz and Zulkarnain, Izzatie Akmal (2025) Ecological impacts of waterwheel deployment on river ecosystems: A mini review. Journal of Experimental Zoology India, 29 (1). pp. 13-18. ISSN 0976-1780

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Abstract

Waterwheels are re-emerging as decentralized renewable energy solutions. They offer economical electricity to rural populations and adhere to sustainable development objectives. Nonetheless, their ecological effects on river ecosystems are less examined in comparison to huge dams and traditional hydropower. This brief review consolidates existing research regarding the hydrological, geomorphological, and ecological impacts of waterwheel installations. Hydrological alterations encompass diminished downstream flows, increased turbulence and modified depth profiles. Geomorphological consequences encompass sediment deposition, erosion, and alterations in river channel shape. The effects of biodiversity include blockage of fish passage, alterations in macroinvertebrate communities, and the degradation of riparian vegetation. Water quality is affected by local oxygenation, as well as the hazards of downstream stagnation and nutrient imbalance. Socio-ecological analysis uncovers trade-offs between energy accessibility and ecological integrity. Mitigation options encompass fish-friendly architecture, bypass channels, adaptive management and policy frameworks that mandate biological flows. Knowledge deficiencies remain in long-term ecological monitoring, sediment-nutrient interactions and socio-ecological integration. Innovative technologies, such as biomimetic blade designs and AI-driven monitoring, demonstrate potential for sustainable solutions. This review asserts that waterwheels can facilitate clean energy transitions if ecological protections are integrated into their design and control. A balanced strategy is crucial to optimize community advantages while preserving the integrity of river ecosystems.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Biodiversity, Ecological impacts, River ecosystems, Sustainable hydropower, Waterwheel
Divisions:	Faculty Of Electrical Technology And Engineering
Depositing User:	Sabariah Ismail
Date Deposited:	20 Jul 2026 08:21
Last Modified:	20 Jul 2026 08:21
URI:	http://eprints.utem.edu.my/id/eprint/30159
Statistic Details:	View Download Statistic

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