Watershed Hydrology and Stream Ecology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to watershed hydrology and stream ecology as outlined in lecture notes.

Watershed

All points on the land surface that will contribute surface water runoff to a particular river outlet.

Hydrological modeling

The use of mathematical models to simulate the movement and distribution of water within the hydrological cycle.

Evapotranspiration (ET)

The processes by which water changes phase from liquid or solid to vapor and is returned to the atmosphere.

Natural flow regime

The integral characteristics of stream flow dynamics that depend on natural processes.

Stream order

A classification system for streams based on the hierarchy of tributaries.

Biological monitoring

The assessment of ecosystem health by studying living organisms within the environment.

Algal production

The process by which algae grow and reproduce in aquatic environments.

Discharge (Q)

The volume of water flowing through a cross-section of a stream per unit time.

Hydrograph

A graph that shows the flow rate of a river over time.

Flash floods

Sudden floods that occur within six hours of heavy rainfall or other events.

Autochthonous organic matter

Organic material produced within the stream ecosystem.

Allochthonous organic matter

Organic material that originates from outside the stream ecosystem.

Strahler Stream Order

A method of classifying the hierarchy of streams based on their branching structure.

River continuum concept

A model that describes the changes in physical and biological characteristics of rivers from headwaters to mouth.

Stream flow hydrograph

A graph that represents the relationship between stream discharge and time.

Invasive species

Non-native species that disrupt ecosystem functions and biodiversity.

Nutrients

Chemical substances that organisms need to live and grow, often affecting water quality.

Riparian zone

The interface between land and a river or stream, crucial for habitat and water quality.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or a particular habitat or ecosystem.