Coupling between downstream variations of channel width and local pool–riffle bed topography

Abstract. A potential control of downstream channel width variations on the structure and planform pool–riffle sequence local bed topography is a key to dynamics gravel rivers. How established sequences respond time-varying changes in at specific locations, however, largely unexplored challenging address with field-based study. Here, we report results flume experiment aimed building understanding how statistically steady profiles adjust spatially prescribed changes. We find that slopes near steady-state conditions inversely correlate gradients when upstream sediment supply approximates estimated transport capacity. This result constrains prior following imposed Furthermore, this relationship between slope gradient consistent expectations from scaling theory broad set field-based, numerical, experimental studies (n=88). However, disruptions coarse through actions such as dam removal can transient flipping expected inverse correlation gradient, collectively highlighting critical before typically implemented spatial averaging schemes be reliably applied.