Rivers as Ecosystems: Corridors, Connectivity, Context, Complexity, & Creatures
Abstract: Rivers can be viewed simply as conveyance systems for water, solutes, and sediment. In this presentation, I review why it is more appropriate to conceptualize rivers as ecosystems. I review the 5 Cs of rivers: (i) the concept of a river corridor, rather than simply a channel; (ii) controls on and effects of three-dimensional connectivity within the river corridor; (iii) the importance of geomorphic and biogeographic context in river corridor process, function, and form; (iv) the spatial and temporal heterogeneity that make river corridors inherently nonlinear systems; and (v) the importance of reciprocal interactions among physical, chemical, and biological components of river corridors. I conclude by discussing the implications of this understanding for river management, including restoration.
IGB Colloquia open up!
IGB strives to facilitate and accelerate the exchange of knowledge and ideas within and also outside of IGB. One element contributing to inter- and transdisciplinary exchange, and more (scientific) cooperation and innovation, is to open up IGB Colloquia to an interested external audience from science (other research institutes, universities, laboratories) as well as practice (i.e. conservationists, freshwater/land-use managers, authorities, associations). If you would like to join this IGB Colloquium as a guest, we ask you to register until the morning of the colloquium 10 o'clock the latest. After we have checked your registration, you will receive the participation link.