Integrating ecology with hydromorphology: a priority for river science and management

摘要: 1. The assessment of links between ecology and physical habitat has become a major issue in river research management. Key drivers include concerns about the conservation implications human modifications (e.g. abstraction, climate change) explicit need to understand ecological importance hydromorphology as prescribed by EU's Water Framework Directive. Efforts are focusing on develop eco-hydromorphology at interface ecology, hydrology fluvial geomorphology. Here, scope this emerging field is defined, some development issues suggested, path for sketched out. 2. In short term, priorities use existing literature or data better identify patterns among organisms, functions hydromorphological character. Another early priority model systems organisms act foci. In medium investigation pattern-processes linkages, spatial structuring, scaling relationships system dynamics will advance mechanistic understanding. The effects change, abstraction regulation, eco-hydromorphic resistance/resilience, responses environmental disturbances likely be management priorities. Large-scale catchment projects, both rural urban locations, should promoted concentrate collaborative efforts, attract financial support raise profile eco-hydromorphology. 3. Eco-hydromorphological expertise currently fragmented across main contributory disciplines (ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, flood risk management, civil engineering), potentially restricting development. This paradoxical given shared vision these fields effective based good science with social impact. A range approaches advocated build sufficient, integrated capacity that deliver real value over coming decades.