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Big data show idiosyncratic patterns and rates of geomorphic river mobility

Author

Listed:
  • Richard J. Boothroyd

    (University of Glasgow
    University of Liverpool)

  • Richard D. Williams

    (University of Glasgow)

  • Trevor B. Hoey

    (Brunel University London)

  • Gary J. Brierley

    (University of Auckland)

  • Pamela L. M. Tolentino

    (University of Glasgow
    University of the Philippines)

  • Esmael L. Guardian

    (University of the Philippines)

  • Juan C. M. O. Reyes

    (University of the Philippines)

  • Cathrine J. Sabillo

    (University of the Philippines)

  • Laura Quick

    (University of Glasgow)

  • John E. G. Perez

    (University of the Philippines
    University of Vienna)

  • Carlos P. C. David

    (University of the Philippines)

Abstract

Big data present unprecedented opportunities to test long-standing theories regarding patterns and rates of geomorphic river adjustments. Here, we use locational probabilities derived from Landsat imagery (1988-2019) to quantify the dynamics of 600 km2 of riverbed in 10 Philippine catchments. Analysis of lateral adjustments reveals spatially non-uniform variability in along-valley patterns of geomorphic river mobility, with zones of relative stability interspersed with zones of relative instability. Hotspots of mobility vary in magnitude, size and location between catchments. We could not identify monotonic relationships between local factors (active channel width, valley floor width and confinement ratio) and mobility. No relation between the channel pattern type and rates of adjustment was evident. We contend that satellite-derived locational probabilities provide a spatially continuous dynamic metric that can help unravel and contextualise forms and rates of geomorphic river adjustment, thereby helping to derive insights into idiosyncrasies of river behaviour in dynamic landscapes.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard J. Boothroyd & Richard D. Williams & Trevor B. Hoey & Gary J. Brierley & Pamela L. M. Tolentino & Esmael L. Guardian & Juan C. M. O. Reyes & Cathrine J. Sabillo & Laura Quick & John E. G. Pere, 2025. "Big data show idiosyncratic patterns and rates of geomorphic river mobility," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-58427-9
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58427-9
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