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The importance of periodic floods for the functioning and conservation of large tropical floodplain rivers: Studies from the orinoco basin

Abstract:

Hydrological seasonality is a strong force driving the changes in ecological patterns and processes occurring in large tropical floodplain rivers. The natural flow regime regulates ecosystem functioning in many ways, including geomorphological modeling of fluvial landscapes and serving as environmental signals that rule life histories of organisms. Anthropogenic changes of natural flow regimes have caused significant alterations on the functioning of these ecosystems. These changes are conducted primarily to control floods and to generate hydropower. Major environmental problems can result from flow regulation, rather than the benefits society expects. To understand the extent of these alterations on floodplain ecosystems, it is necessary to acknowledge that large rivers should not be studied separately from their floodplains, but rather considered as functional units, such as established by the flood pulse concept. Finally, approaching these ecosystems through studies and management with a broad perspective, incorporating people's traditional knowledge, is emphasized.