Fine Sediment Intrusion and its Consequences for River Ecosystems: A Review

Water systems contain fine sediment as a natural phenomenon. The main cause of ecological deterioration is undesirable fine sediment. Fine sediment comprises inorganic particles of sand, silt, and clay that are less than 2 mm in diameter. Fine sediment is considered to be pollutant in water bodies (rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs). Sediment has various channel and nonchannel sources. Fine sediment can alter the hydraulics of rivers and their morphology. It has detrimental effects on reservoir storage and function, can degrade the food chain, and affects the reproduction of aquatic animals, which ultimately affects river ecosystems. The deposition of fine sediment renders waterways difficult to navigate and hinders recreational uses. It degrades the water quality for drinking purposes, wildlife, and affects the land surrounding the bodies of water. The intrusion of fine sediment is a global problem, and with time, researchers will understand the effects on biological and physical processes. Comprehension may help scientists minimize the effects of fine sediment on river ecosystems by considering various disciplines such as ecology, hydraulics, fluvial geomorphology, and hydrochemistry. Many researchers have investigated fine sediment in rivers. This paper reviews the literature, focusing on the consequences of intrusion on the river ecosystem, river health, and associated hydraulic parameters.