Get connected:  Fish and floodplains in English rivers

Graeme Peirson  (Environment Agency - graeme.peirson@environment-agency.gov.uk)

Jonathan Bolland  (University of Hull)

Neil Trudgill  (Environment Agency)

Charles Crundwell  (Environment Agency)

Mike Williams  (Environment Agency)

Proceedings paper from the 10th Annual River Restoration Centre Network Conference, 1st - 2nd April 2009

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Abstract

The importance of lateral connectivity between main river channel and floodplain in maintaining diversity and abundance is well-known for fish species in lowland rivers of the tropics and in European continental rivers with seasonal flood pulsing. Restoration of lateral connectivity is being considered as one of a number of measures for achievement of good ecological status in lowland river systems both in Britain and continental Europe. However, the relevance of lateral connectivity for fish communities in rivers in England and Wales, with their aseasonal flooding patterns, is less well-understood. The feasibility of restoration of lateral connectivity in the rivers of the UK, with its high human population, heavily developed landscape and predicted increased threat of flooding due to climate change, is also contentious.

This paper presents the findings from investigations into fish dispersal behaviour in floods and high flow events, describes examples of projects already undertaken to improve floodplain habitats for fish, and describes work in progress to design practical solutions for providing safe fish access to and from floodplain habitats through regulated tidal exchange structures. Other research needs to support the restoration of lateral connectivity are identified.

Keywords

cyprinid; England; floodplain; rehabilitation; stranding; lateral connectivity