A Comparative Investigation of Infiltration and Channel Roughness of Ephemeral and Perennial Streams in a Mountainous Catchment

• DOI: 10.1002/rra.4424
• Publication Date: 2025-02-01T10:44:49Z
• Authors: Bhabishya Khaniya; Pattiyage I. A. G...; Manimeldura D. D....; Onyx W. H. Wai
• Keywords: Ephemeral key; Infiltration (HVAC); Perennial stream; Thalweg; Dry season

ABSTRACT Infiltration and channel roughness, two major factors that govern stream discharge, were studied in similar‐sized ephemeral perennial streams a mountainous tropical catchment. Seasons defined based on flow conditions, i.e., with (wet season) without (dry surface flow. A was divided transversely into low‐flow areas (close to the thalweg) high‐flow margin). The highest average infiltration (~50 mm/h) observed low around thalweg of dry season significantly higher than for any other spatial scale or temporal period. did not show statistically significant difference between types, surprisingly, showed streams. Since sediment moisture organic content negative positive correlations infiltration, respectively, both types litter during season, high attributed stream‐type dependent processing. subject partial decomposition due rapid drying had residue previously buried litter. Ephemeral channels three times rougher channels. Standing crop biomass mean particle size increased roughness but less prominent presence study demonstrated has special role defining pattern, flood control potential