Humans have altered almost every thing about the Mekong River
ecosystem. They have altered the water quality from fertilizer,
pesticide, and urban waste pollution. They have affected the
biodiversity by over fishing and fishing by explosives. In
addition, humans have affected biodiversity because they have
destroyed habitats by deforestation, for example the mangroves,
and by blocking or destroying spawning grounds. They have
altered the path of the river by building dams and blasting
canals to open trade routes. This stops the flow of sediments
and nutrients that are vital for soil replenishment. Humans have
introduced invasive species like hyacinth and mimosa that
quickly take over the wetlands and crowd out native plants.
Every aspect of the river has been affected by humans. The river
ecosystem provides many services to humans. It provides
sustenance in the form of water, fish, and soil to grow rice and
other crops. Rivers provides habitat for the greatest
concentration of life on the planet (Biodiversity