Bridging ecology and geosciences in riverscapes: Implications for process-based restoration

Ecological Research
By: , and 

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Abstract

There has been a growing interest in integrating geological and ecological processes for sustainable river management and restoration. Lotic systems are shaped by diverse physical processes, including geology, geomorphology, hydrology, and interactions with terrestrial processes. However, restoration practices often prioritize specific habitats or river forms without fully considering the underlying physical processes that support biological communities and ecosystem functions. In this paper, we synthesize studies that integrally examine geological and ecological processes across different scales and components of riverscapes, including geohydrological processes, which have been less investigated in riverscape studies. We begin by examining processes at broader spatial scales, including river–watershed and river–riparian interactions, and gradually narrow our focus to the dynamics that occur among habitats within river channels, through which we highlight the significance of conceptualizing rivers as dynamic “networks” rather than linear features. Finally, we identify both scientific and practical challenges that can be addressed to bridge the gap between basic-science implications and their implementation in riverscape restorations.

Suggested Citation

Uno, H., Nakagawa, H., Ishiyama, N., Sakai, M., Mori, T., Terui, A., Scholl, E.A., Wohl, E., and Baxter, C.V., 2026, Bridging ecology and geosciences in riverscapes: Implications for process-based restoration: Ecological Research, v. 41, no. 1, e70028, 19 p., https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1703.70028.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Bridging ecology and geosciences in riverscapes: Implications for process-based restoration
Series title Ecological Research
DOI 10.1111/1440-1703.70028
Volume 41
Issue 1
Publication Date January 04, 2026
Year Published 2026
Language English
Publisher Wiley
Contributing office(s) Southwest Biological Science Center
Description e70028, 19 p.
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