Lesson 2/2: GOOD SHAPE OF A RIVER

Every river can be divided into upper, middle and lower sections. Each section has its own characteristics determined by a number of parameters, among which the most critical are slope, the quantity of water (discharge), and the types of sediments. In each of these zones, one can find different living conditions and therefore different river ecosystems. In the fast flowing waters, for example, animals exhibit special adaptations for holding on to the bottom of a river to avoid being swept away.

To examine differences and characteristics of living conditions in different parts of the river and to connect these differences with the ability of a river to purify itself. To learn what a good hydro-morphological shape of a river looks like in different parts of a river and that riparian area, as well as the shape of a riverbed itself, has essential purification functions.

upper/middle/lower sections of a river; riverbed, river bank, riparian area;