Presented by Kristin Montauredes Riparian Zone

Riparian Zone- The transition between the aquatic environment of a river or stream and the upland terrestrial environment, generally subject to periodic flooding and elevated groundwater table.

Characteristics Abiotic

Characteristics Biotic

Ecosystem Services Riparian zones take up less than 1 % of land area. They are extremely important to most ecosystems.

Fish Habitat Wildlife Habitat Healthy riparian zones are the optimal habitat for fish. Riparian zones provide water to wildlife.

Threats to riparian zones Overgrazing Logging Agriculture Dams Housing Developments Invasive exotic plants

Which one of these is a characteristic of a healthy riparian system? A. many plants B. terrestrial life C. aquatic life D. all of the above What is an example of a threat to riparian zones? A. overgrazing B. swimming C. fishing D. singing