Surface Films: Areas of Water Bodies That Are Often Overlooked

Abstract

Abstract Material accumulates at the water–air interface of all natural water bodies to form a surface film. The interface is a dynamic environment, so surface films are altered by water movements, solar radiation, and biological processes. These films consist of a complex of organic matter and microorganisms, some of which are harmful. Researchers have often overlooked surface films when studying water bodies, and their importance is only now being recognized.