Quantifying fluvial habitat changes due to multiple subsequent floods in a braided alpine reach

During flood events, river topography and fluvial habitats can change drastically, potentially affecting the ecological status. In case of multiple floods, whether each single event modifies habitat characteristics in same direction or not, is still an open question. We gathered high quality topographical data one braided Alpine reach before, between after floods. Considering full dynamics hydrological regime affected by hydropower production, we calculated water depth flow velocities distributions for relevant discharge conditions using hydrodynamic modelling. then four indicators related to diversity, quantity, connectivity stranding risk. Despite consistent depositional morphological trend, diversity metrics returned pre-floods values initial deviation. The quantity did not show a clear trend towards alternative state. Habitat prevalence varied seasonally with release, also changed markedly possibly species composition. possible intrinsic variability several which aid management restoration floodplains.