The importance of fluvial hydraulics to fish-habitat in low-gradient alluvial streams

Freshwater Biology
By:  and 

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Abstract

1. A major cause of degradation and loss of stream fish is alteration of physical habitat within and adjacent to the channel. We describe a potentially efficient approach to fish restoration based upon the relationship between fluvial hydraulics, geomorphology, and those habitats important to fish.


2. The aquatic habitat in a low-gradient, alluvial stream in the Ozark Plateaus physiographical province was classified according to location in the channel, patterns of water flow, and structures that control flow. The resulting habitat types were ranked in terms of their temporal stability and ability to be manipulated.

3. Delineation and quantification of discrete physical spaces in a stream, termed hydraulic habitat units, are shown to be useful in stream restoration programmes if the ecological importance of each habitat unit is known, and if habitats are defined by fluvial dynamics so that restoration is aided by natural forces.

4. Examples, using different taxa, are given to illustrate management options.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title The importance of fluvial hydraulics to fish-habitat in low-gradient alluvial streams
Series title Freshwater Biology
DOI 10.1111/j.1365-2427.1993.tb00758.x
Volume 29
Year Published 1993
Language English
Publisher Wiley
Contributing office(s) Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center
Description 10 p.
First page 211
Last page 220
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