Differences in distribution patterns around river confluences among hydrophilic vegetation groups

Abstract

AbstractIn riparian areas, the distribution patterns of plant species are generally considered to depend on their flooding tolerance. Areas around river confluences are known to experience frequent and/or strong flooding events and provide diverse habitats for plants in riparian areas. However, the degree to which hydrophilic vegetation types increase their distribution around confluences may depend on their flooding tolerance. To test this hypothesis, we compared patch numbers and total areas of ten vegetation groups between confluences and single‐flow areas. The vegetation groups were classified on the basis of life form and morphology of dominant species. Additionally, we compared total area of natural bare ground (an index of flooding disturbance) between confluences and single‐flow areas. We found that patch numbers of annual grass, forb, and vine, perennial grass and forb, and riparian forest vegetation, as well as total areas of annual forb and vine, perennial grass and forb, bamboo and riparian forest vegetation, and natural bare ground, were greater around river confluences than in single‐flow areas. On the other hand, patch numbers of shrub vegetation and total areas of annual grass, perennial vine, willow, and shrub vegetation decreased around confluences. These results suggest that confluences enhance diverse, but not all, types of habitat for hydrophilic vegetation. Thus, river confluences are a key element in maintaining diverse riparian vegetation.