Journal of Water and Climate Change (Nov 2023)
Ecological flow research and optimal selection of the most ecologically relevant hydrologic indicators at the Jingjiang River's three outlets
Abstract
Scientific ecological hydrological indicators provide constraints that contribute to the healthy operation and restoration of river ecosystems. Daily flow data from three Jing River outlets (SongZiKou (SZK), TaiPingKou (TPK), and OuChiKou (OCK)) spanning 1955–2019 were used. We employed innovative methods, such as IHA–RVA and annual distribution, to establish ecological flow thresholds. Surplus and deficit indicators were used to analyze annual and seasonal runoff dynamics. The PCA/RVA method identified relevant hydrological indicators and assessed hydrological changes influenced by the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR). Key findings include suitable ecological flow thresholds for the flood season (SZK/TPK/OCK – 218.6/94.5, 51.7/96.0, and 60.9–4,494.5 m3/s, respectively). The TGR impacted the flow duration curve, causing deficits during the flood season (up to 0.99, OCK) and surpluses in non-flood seasons (up to 5.04, OCK). The study assessed the Jing River watershed's response to hydrological changes, notably due to the reservoir's water storage and flow interruption during the dry season, revealing declining low pulse count (SDG) and duration (MTS) and increasing high pulse duration (GJP). This research employs innovative methods and hydrological indicators, enhancing understanding of Jing River watershed ecological hydrology, and offering essential data for water resource management and ecosystem health. HIGHLIGHTS The IHA–RVA method was used to study the biological flow thresholds and changes of three outlets of Jingjiang River in the middle of Yangtze River based on 60 years of daily flow data.; This study applied PCA and RDA to filter IHA for ERHIs, addressed redundancy issues, and investigated the ERHI's variation during dry period breaks and the Three Gorges Reservoir.;
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