The aim of this overview paper is to analyze the use of various landscape metrics and landscape indices for the characterization of landscape structure and various processes at both landscape and ecosystem level. We analyzed the appearance of the terms landscape metrics/indexes/indices in combination with seven main categories in the field of landscape ecology [1) use/selection and misuse of metrics, 2) biodiversity and habitat analysis; 3) water quality; 4) evaluation of the landscape pattern and its change; 5) urban landscape pattern, road network; 6) aesthetics of landscape; 7) management, planning and monitoring] in the titles, abstracts and/or key words of research papers published in international peer-reviewed scientific journals indexed by the Institute of Science Information (ISI) Web of Science (WoS) from 1994 to October 2008. Most of the landscape metrics and indices are used concerning biodiversity and habitat analysis, and also the evaluation of landscape pattern and its change (up to 25 articles per year). There are only a few articles on the relationships of landscape metrics/indices/indexes to social aspects and landscape perception.

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We investigated the relationship between land use parameters and FRAGSTATS-based landscape * metrics (Edge Density. Patch Density, Mean Shape Index, Mean Euclidean Nearest Neighbour Index, Contagion, S Patch Richness Density and Shannon's Diversity Index) and nutrient/organic-matter-based water quality •* indicators (BODT and CODKM,,O.I values, total-N and total-P concentrations in water) in 24 catchments with • various land use patterns in Estonia, using the CORINE Land Cover Map (1:100 000). Multiple regression 3 analysis showed that, for BOD7, total-N and total-P, the most important predictor was the proportion of û rban areas, but landscape metrics also had a significant relationship with water quality. Mean Shape Index J and Contagion were the most important predictors (or COD^MriM-The knowledge that land use and landscape f configuration impact water quality can be used in establishing and implementing water management plans W in Europe. K eywords Catchments; land use; landscape metrics; water quality 0

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