Integrating fluvial geomorphology into river hydrological connectivity: Implications for carbon emissions

Abstract

Rivers serve as critical components of the carbon cycle and hotspots for carbon emissions, while changes in hydrological connectivity can significantly modulate carbon emission processes. Through literature analysis, we elaborate the concept of hydrological connectivity, and proposes a refined definition that incorporates fluvial geomorphology. This redefined concept characterizes the integrated transport of materials, energy, and biota within river systems, encompassing both structural and functional connectivity dimensions, along with their temporal-spatial dynamics and relative stability. Based on this theoretical foundation, we propose a framework for assessing carbon emissions under changing hydrological connectivity patterns. The framework integrates empirical formulations with remote sensing data interpretation to delineate the river areas of carbon emissions, while incorporating field-measured carbon fluxes to establish a Monte Carlo model for emission estimation. Furthermore, anthropogenic activities alter hydrological connectivity, thereby affecting watershed-scale carbon budgets. Consequently, future research should incorporate advanced technologies to integrate socioeconomic factors into hydrological connectivity assessments, and facilitate the development of intelligent monitoring, evaluation, and prediction systems at the watershed or regional scale, enabling comprehensive emission assessments.