Non-perennial segments in river networks

Datry, T., Boulton, A.J., Fritz, K., Stubbington, R. ORCID: 0000-0001-8475-5109, Cid, N., Crabot, J. and Tockner, K., 2023. Non-perennial segments in river networks. Nature Reviews Earth and Environment, 4. ISSN 2662-138X

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Abstract

Non-perennial river segments — those that recurrently cease to flow or frequently dry — occur in all river networks and are globally more abundant than perennial (always flowing) segments. However, research and management have historically focused on perennial river segments. In this Review, we outline how non-perennial segments are integral parts of river networks. Repeated cycles of flowing, non-flowing and dry phases in non-perennial segments influence biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics at different spatial scales, from individual segments to entire river networks. Varying configurations of perennial and non-perennial segments govern physical, chemical and ecological responses to changes in the flow regimes of each river network, especially in response to human activities. The extent of non-perennial segments in river networks has increased owing to warming, changing hydrological patterns and human activities, and this increase is predicted to continue. Moreover, the dry phases of flow regimes are expected to be longer, drier and more frequent, albeit with high regional variability. These changes will likely impact biodiversity, potentially tipping some ecosystems to compromised stable states. Effective river-network management must recognize ecosystem services (such as flood risk management and groundwater recharge) provided by non-perennial segments and ensure their legislative and regulatory protection, which is often lacking.

Item Type:	Journal article
Publication Title:	Nature Reviews Earth and Environment
Creators:	Datry, T., Boulton, A.J., Fritz, K., Stubbington, R., Cid, N., Crabot, J. and Tockner, K.
Publisher:	Springer
Date:	23 November 2023
Volume:	4
ISSN:	2662-138X
Identifiers:	Number Type 10.1038/s43017-023-00495-w DOI 1838831 Other
Divisions:	Schools > School of Science and Technology
Record created by:	Jonathan Gallacher
Date Added:	05 Dec 2023 12:34
Last Modified:	05 Dec 2023 12:34
URI:	https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/50486

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