Author(s): Chubin Weng; Mengzhen Xu; Yongxian Zhang
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Upper Yellow River Fish habitat River morphology Remote sensing image
Abstract: Dams impede fish migration, and although fish passages exist, their efficiency remains inadequate. Recognizing existing fish habitats is crucial for the protection and restoration of fish populations, especially considering the hydromorphic changes resulting from river morphology and hydraulic conditions. This study investigates the distribution and characteristics of fish habitats in the Tongde Basin of upper Yellow River based on field investigation and satellite remote sensing. In May 2024, eight fish habitats were identified through field surveys, complemented by drone imagery to assess topography and water quality. Sentinel-2 images were used to extract river surfaces during the spawning period (April to June) for morphological analysis in RivMAP toolbox. The fish habitats are primarily located near tributary confluences and debris flow fans, characterized by slow-flowing areas conducive to spawning. The study concludes that habitat distribution aligns with river morphologies, with broader water-level fluctuation zones, diverse geomorphic units and coarser particles of substrate enhancing habitat quality, ultimately supporting the reproductive activities of local fish species.
Year: 2025