Hydrodynamic and Fluvial Morphologic Processes: Implications for Fisheries Management and Research

Abstract Past work has not sufficiently integrated the sciences of hydrology and fisheries. Therefore, streamflow, sediment transport, and channel morphology were used to describe the present state of our knowledge of interactions between physical and biological (fishery) processes. These three physical factors (and certainly others) dictate both habitat quantity and quality for different life stages of fishes, and their inclusion in habitat assessments will enhance the quality of investigations. Interaction of the hydraulic and morphologic factors creates either dynamic equilibrium or disequilibrium. Indicators are given for determining the type of equilibrium condition. Thus, stream reaches in disequilibrium can be avoided for enhancement or channel stabilization projects. Neglect of the equilibrium condition increases the probability of failure of enhancement projects. Examples of enhancement measures and possible failures are described. Investigators are also urged to use additional hydrodynamic param...