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Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs) are ecosystems that are maintained by direct or indirect access to groundwater, and rely on the flow or chemical characteristics of groundwater for some or all of their water requirements. They cover vast areas and come in three major types: aquatic, terrestrial, and subterranean. Aquatic GDEs could be wetlands, lakes, rivers, streams, and springs. Terrestrial GDEs include certain upland forests or riparian areas. And subterranean GDEs cover underground aquifers, karst, and caves.
GDEs are major contributors to biodiversity intactness in a region, supporting a wide range of vegetation and wildlife.