Loss of vertical connectivity

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Loss of vertical connectivity

04. Morphological alterations

General description

Vertical fragmentation can be produced by physical processes that reduce river bed permeability such as siltation of the riverbed surface and clogging of pore spaces within stream bed gravels (Hancock 2002[1]). This may result from increased delivery of fine sediment to the river as a result of for example changes in land use or agricultural practices, as well from reduced flow energy, for example due to flow regulation. In either case, the balance between sediment supply and sediment transport is disrupted, leading to the accumulation of fine sediments within the river bed (Kondolf and Wilcock, 1996). In addition, physical modification of river channels, such as straightening and simplifying channel form (Kondolf et al., 2006) may reduce water depth and retention within the channel, adversely affecting vertical connectivity.

Effect/Impact on (including literature citations)

  • HYMO (general and specified per HYMO element)
  • physico - chemical parameters
  • Biota (general and specified per Biological quality elements)

Case studies where this pressure is present

Possible restoration, rehabilitation and mitigation measures

Useful references

Other relevant information


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