Science Group
Question:
dramaxoqueen
Student
High School - 9th Grade
Explain why riffles are important to trout habitat, and how channelization ultimately causes severe decreases in trout populations.
Answers:
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nconaway Teacher
High School - 11th GradePosted by nconaway on Friday December 19, 2008 at 7:44 AMI can't get my hands on the paper I want to answer this question right now, but I think I can remember.
Riffles are caused by uneven, or rough channel beds, which trout need for egg-laying. This is one possible reason they are important for trout habitat.
By channelization, I assume you mean they concrete channelization. One reason this could decrease trout populations is that it decreases or removes trees from the banks. Trees on streambanks are important because they contribute organic matter from falling leaves into the stream as well as large woody debris when branches or the trees themselves fall into the stream. This debris is extremaly important for trout habitat. It provides cover and pools for the trout.
Hope this is helpful.
