Alluvial floodplains are unique geomorphic features of lotic systems that are characterized by a shifting morphology in three spatial dimensions. This spatial and temporal heterogeneity is thought to explain why these aquatic-terrestrial ecotones are the most species-rich habitats on the terrestrial portions of earth. Many factors and processes influencing these high levels of species richness remain unstudied, however. Regional factors, such as regional species pools, and local factors, such as groundwater-surface water exchange have received little consideration as factors controlling local species richness on floodplains. Additionally, the conservation of these habitats and the biodiversity they support remains shortsighted without [...]
