One-and two-dimensional ecohydraulic modeling of formoso river (MG)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare ecohydrological simulations from a one-dimensional model (PHABSIM - Physical Habitat Simulation System) and a two-dimensional model (River2D) in order to indicate a reliable tool that could be used to determine public policies for the sustainable management of the water resources of the Formoso River basin (MG). The results from the calibration of hydraulic variables, namely, water depth and velocity, as well as habitat predictions for three fish species of the river were compared. The results showed that River2D was best suited to simulate ecohydrological features for the studied river stretch. Although PHABSIM presented a better fit of the hydraulic variables at the calibration process, the use of only three monitoring cross sections to compose the biotic model database compromised its habitat modeling. PHABSIM model was not able to accurately assess the actual characteristics of the physical habitat in the segments of the river located between the monitoring cross sections.