Integrating Metaecosystem Framework with Ecosystem Service Dynamics in Sociohydrosystems

Abstract Sociohydrosystems provide vital ecosystem services such as water purification, flood regulation, and climate regulation. However, understanding the complex relationships among ecosystem processes, hydrosystem dynamics, and ecosystem services is crucial. The metaecosystem framework, which is focused on the flows of organisms, matter, and energy among ecosystems across spatial and temporal scales, provides valuable tools for more holistic ecosystem assessments. The present article shows that a unified framework is crucial for understanding how ecosystem services are influenced by spatiotemporal dynamics of organisms, matter, and energy, advancing our understanding of how changes in one area of the hydrosystem translate into changes in other areas. The proposed framework also helps identify synergies and trade-offs among ecosystem services and the influence of environmental conditions. Finally, this unified framework enhances our ability to inform decision-making; design adaptive management strategies that consider changing environmental conditions, especially in the context of climate change; and mitigate social inequalities.