The flood pulse concept: new aspects, approaches and applications - an update

Abstract

The flood pulse concept (FPC), published in 1989, was based on the scientific experience of the authors\nand published data worldwide. Since then, knowledge on floodplains has increased considerably, creating a\nlarge database for testing the predictions of the concept. The FPC has proved to be an integrative approach for\nstudying highly diverse and complex ecological processes in river-floodplain systems; however, the concept\nhas been modified, extended and restricted by several authors. Major advances have been achieved through\ndetailed studies on the effects of hydrology and hydrochemistry, climate, paleoclimate, biogeography, biodiversity\nand landscape ecology and also through wetland restoration and sustainable management of floodplains\nin different latitudes and continents. Discussions on floodplain ecology and management are greatly\ninfluenced by data obtained on flow pulses and connectivity, the Riverine Productivity Model and the Multiple\nUse Concept. This paper summarizes the predictions of the FPC, evaluates their value in the light of recent\ndata and new concepts and discusses further developments in floodplain theory.