An Ecosystem Perspective of Riparian Zones

摘要: R iparian zones are the interfaces between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. As ecotones, they encompass sharp gradients of environmental factors, ecological processes, plant communities. Riparian not easily delineated but comprised mosaics landforms, communities, environments within larger landscape. We propose a conceptual model riparian tones that integrates physical processes shape valleyfloor landscapes, succession communities on these geomorphic surfaces, formation habitat, production nutritional resources for ecosys-