Assessment of hydrological connectivity characteristics of riparian zones and their correlation with root–soil composites at different bank heights of a first-class river in China

Under the combined effects of topography and vegetation, hydrological connectivity characteristics riverbank slopes become complex unclear, which limit utilization protection riparian zones. To quantify in root–soil composites, we conducted dyeing tracing experiments a high elevation plot low on bank Fenhe River. Soil root properties indexes plots were measured analyzed. The results showed that soil area ratio was approximate 1 depth 0–5 cm then decreased to 0.1 from 5 25 cm. ratio, maximum dyed depth, length index, peak value non-uniformity coefficient (Pc2) 27%, 26%, 5%, 40% 45% greater than those (Pc1). index ( IHC ) Pc2 7%, 44% 71% Pc1 depths 0–10 cm, 10–20 20–30 respectively. There no significant correlation between physical at different depths, closely related plant roots with diameter less 1mm. study primarily explored composites. provide scientific basis for exploring zones, can support future zone restoration efforts similar regions.