Coupling biological and physical processes: The ecological significance of river channel hydraulics and fluvial dynamics

Abstract

This chapter focuses on how flow and associated geomorphic processes influence river and stream invertebrates. It stresses the importance of flows and fluvial dynamics across a range of scales, discussing how they influence individual organisms, populations and whole communities. It considers not just benthic larvae, but how flow and sedimentological conditions influence other life stages. Consideration is also given to how organisms influence habitat—so called ‘habitat engineering’. The chapter argues that a detailed understanding of species’ ecologies is needed if we are to understand precisely why they are affected by flow conditions and to allow us to manage rivers sustainably.