Freshwater fish biodiversity restoration in floodplain rivers requires connectivity and habitat heterogeneity at multiple spatial scales
Topics: River restoration in general, Habitat & Biodiversity, River continuity, Fisheries,
Regions: Western Europe, Published: 20-06-2022 , ISBN: n.a. , Authors: T. Stoffers, A.D. Buijse, G.W. Geerling, J.H. Jans, M.M. Schoor, J.J. Poos, J.A.J. Verreth, L.A.J. Nagelkerke
Clearly, there is no one-size fits-all design for river restoration projects. Whether a river section is free-flowing or impounded dictates the scope and efficacy of restoration projects and, within a river section, multiple complementary restoration projects might be key to mitigate freshwater fish biodiversity loss. An essential element for success is that these projects should retain permanent lateral connection to the main channel.
Highlights
• Fish recruitment and habitat conditions are studied in 46 river restoration projects.
• Flow conditions and lateral connectivity are essential for young riverine fishes.
• Multiple spatial scales of habitat heterogeneity affect both abundance and diversity.
• There is no one-size-fits-all design to restore large rivers for fishes.
• River restoration projects should be complementary to serve the entire fish community.