Control of sediment dynamics by vegetation as a key function driving biogeomorphic succession within fluvial corridors

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
Here, the AA. propose that the control of sediment erosion and deposition by riparian vegetation is a key geomorphological and ecological (i.e. biogeomorphic) function within fluvial corridors. In a 3 year study, they investigated the correlations between riparian vegetation and hydrogeomorphic dynamics along a transverse gradient from the main channel to the floodplain of the River Tech, France. Sediment erosion and deposition rates varied significantly along the transverse gradient as a function of the vegetation biovolume intercepting water flow. Three different biogeomorphic functions, all related to the concept of ecosystem engineering, were identified. Overall, this study based on empirical data points to the fundamental importance of sediment flow control by pioneer riparian vegetation in defining fluvial ecosystem and landform organisation in time and in space.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Earth surface processes and landforms, issn : 0197-9337, 2009, vol. 34, n°. 13, p. 1790-1810, nombre de pages : 21, Références bibliographiques : 2,5 p.

Date :
2009

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, Chichester, Wiley