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Hydropeaking is an anthropogenic regime that results from the strong flow variations in the receiving waters of storage hydropower plants. These variations are due to flexible energy production, i.e. the sudden increase of electricity demands or from its decrease, affecting the fish assemblages of that river stretch. We evaluated the mitigation potential of the hydropeaking diversion hydropower plant (hd-HPP) named Gemeinschaftskraftwerk Inn - GKI, located in the Inn River at the Alpine region (Tyrol, Austria). This HPP will use a weir reservoir for the retention of hydropeaking coming from upstream HPPs, together with the diversion of peak flows, which intends to mitigate the impacts of hydropeaking along the residual flow stretch while allowing for hydropower production. Our study aims to evaluate and mitigate the stranding potential of the European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) within the time range of the species' larvae life-stage in the Inn river's studied stretch. To do so, we addressed a set of high-resolution historical hydrological data and, afterwards, the implementation of mitigation operational scenarios, for wet and dry years. The performance of the historical status and the mitigation scenario was assessed based on 1D unsteady modelling in a set of 26 cross-sections along a 6.5 km stretch, by quantifying the downramping rate and flow ratio events over the grayling larvae's tolerance thresholds to stranding (0.2 cm/min) and the Austrian legal threshold for flow ratio (1:3), respectively. Furthermore, we developed a new eco-hydromorphological assessment scheme, including topographic features that have been confirmed as stranding increase factors, besides the hydrological parameter's assessment. A qualitative classification was defined (Very High, High, Medium, Small, Low) for the species' larvae stranding potential, gathering the hydrological and morphological parameters assessment, represented in a map with the cross-section's location and assessment class. Results confirmed that the operational scenario highly reduced the number of events where downramping rate and the flow ratio were over the thresholds in all sections, with higher effectiveness in the wet year analysis, where tributaries influence showed a major role. Afterwards, for the qualitative assessment, in the historical records analysis the cross-sections status were included in the High or Medium classes of stranding potential. In the mitigation scenarios, most of sections' status shifted to the Low or Small classes. With this study, we confirmed that the GKI hydropower scheme may be considered as an effective hydropeaking mitigation strategy. Additionally, we presented a novel 1D-based approach for stranding potential assessment, grounded on a cost-effective and integrative classification scheme.
Miguel Moreira; Martin Schletterer; Ana Quaresma; Isabel Boavida; António Pinheiro. New insights into hydropeaking mitigation assessment from a diversion hydropower plant: The GKI project (Tyrol, Austria). Ecological Engineering 2020, 158, 106035 .
AMA StyleMiguel Moreira, Martin Schletterer, Ana Quaresma, Isabel Boavida, António Pinheiro. New insights into hydropeaking mitigation assessment from a diversion hydropower plant: The GKI project (Tyrol, Austria). Ecological Engineering. 2020; 158 ():106035.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMiguel Moreira; Martin Schletterer; Ana Quaresma; Isabel Boavida; António Pinheiro. 2020. "New insights into hydropeaking mitigation assessment from a diversion hydropower plant: The GKI project (Tyrol, Austria)." Ecological Engineering 158, no. : 106035.
Downstream of small-scale hydropower plants (SHPs), the intensity, frequency and persistence of hydropeaking events often cause an intolerable stress on fish of all life stages. Rapid increases in flow velocity result in fish avoiding unstable habitats and seeking refuge to reduce energy expenditure. To understand fish movements and the habitat use of native Iberian cyprinids in a high-gradient peaking river, 77 individuals were PIT tagged downstream of Bragado SHP in the North of Portugal. Tagged fish species included Pseudochondrostoma duriense and Squalius carolitertii. Fish positions were recorded manually on two different occasions: during hydropeaking events (HP) and without hydropeaking events (NHP). From the 77 tagged fish, we were able to record habitat use for 33 individuals (20 P. duriense and 13 S. carolitertii) in a total of 125 relocations. Fish species were distributed along the river reach with high density in the upstream area in the vicinity of the SHP tailrace, in particular during HP. Fish locations were associated with velocity for P. duriense and S. carolitertii. The latter tended to use faster flowing waters than P. duriense. Our findings on the habitat use in peaking rivers are a valuable tool to help in the selection and design of mitigation measures.
Isabel Boavida; Filipa Ambrósio; Maria João Costa; Ana Quaresma; Maria Manuela Portela; António Pinheiro; Francisco Godinho. Habitat Use by Pseudochondrostoma duriense and Squalius carolitertii Downstream of a Small-Scale Hydropower Plant. Water 2020, 12, 2522 .
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, Filipa Ambrósio, Maria João Costa, Ana Quaresma, Maria Manuela Portela, António Pinheiro, Francisco Godinho. Habitat Use by Pseudochondrostoma duriense and Squalius carolitertii Downstream of a Small-Scale Hydropower Plant. Water. 2020; 12 (9):2522.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; Filipa Ambrósio; Maria João Costa; Ana Quaresma; Maria Manuela Portela; António Pinheiro; Francisco Godinho. 2020. "Habitat Use by Pseudochondrostoma duriense and Squalius carolitertii Downstream of a Small-Scale Hydropower Plant." Water 12, no. 9: 2522.
The rapid river flow variations due to hydropower production during peak demand periods, known as hydropeaking, causes several ecological impacts. In this study, we assessed the potential of an overhead cover and velocity-refuge structure in an indoor flume as an indirect hydropeaking mitigation measure for the cyprinid species Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei). We designed a lab-scale LUNKERS-type structure using two different materials which were used separately: Wood (opaque) and acrylic (transparent), tested under hydropeaking and base-flow events. Physiological (glucose and lactate) and behavioral (structure use) responses were quantified. The structure use (inside and in the vicinity) and the individual and schooling behavior was assessed. Although there was no evidence that the hydropeaking event triggered a physiological response, the wood structure use was significantly higher than the acrylic one, where the metrics of use increased in the hydropeaking event. Differences between individual and group behavior were only higher for the entrances in the wood structure. The higher frequency of wood structure use under hydropeaking conditions suggests that the visual stimulus conferred by this shaded refuge enables fish to easily find it. The results suggest that the use of overhead and velocity-refuge structures may act as an effective hydropeaking flow-refuge mitigation measure.
Miguel Moreira; Maria João Costa; Jorge Valbuena-Castro; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. Cover or Velocity: What Triggers Iberian Barbel (Luciobarbus Bocagei) Refuge Selection under Experimental Hydropeaking Conditions? Water 2020, 12, 317 .
AMA StyleMiguel Moreira, Maria João Costa, Jorge Valbuena-Castro, António N. Pinheiro, Isabel Boavida. Cover or Velocity: What Triggers Iberian Barbel (Luciobarbus Bocagei) Refuge Selection under Experimental Hydropeaking Conditions? Water. 2020; 12 (2):317.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMiguel Moreira; Maria João Costa; Jorge Valbuena-Castro; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. 2020. "Cover or Velocity: What Triggers Iberian Barbel (Luciobarbus Bocagei) Refuge Selection under Experimental Hydropeaking Conditions?" Water 12, no. 2: 317.
Due to peak electricity demand, hydropeaking introduces rapid and artificial flow fluctuations in the receiving river, which alters the river hydromorphology, while affecting the downstream ecological integrity. The impacts of hydropeaking have been addressed in flumes and in rivers. However, few studies propose mitigation solutions based on fish responses. The objective of this communication was to assemble the methods and outputs of flume research focused on Iberian cyprinids and to present recommendations to be used by freshwater scientists and hydropower producers. Emphasis was given to the critical role of integrating ecology and hydraulics to find the causal pathway between a flow change and a measurable fish response. The use of diverse behaviour quantification methods, flow sensing technologies, and statistical tools were decisive to strengthen the validity of the findings and to identify fish-fluid relationships, according to flow events. This communication encourages further research to identify flow thresholds for key life-cycle stages and complementary river studies to design and assess mitigation solutions for hydropeaking. Although the research focused on an Iberian cyprinid, the methods suggested have the potential to be extended to other fish species affected by hydropeaking.
Maria João Costa; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. Habitat Enhancement Solutions for Iberian Cyprinids Affected by Hydropeaking: Insights from Flume Research. Sustainability 2019, 11, 6998 .
AMA StyleMaria João Costa, António N. Pinheiro, Isabel Boavida. Habitat Enhancement Solutions for Iberian Cyprinids Affected by Hydropeaking: Insights from Flume Research. Sustainability. 2019; 11 (24):6998.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria João Costa; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. 2019. "Habitat Enhancement Solutions for Iberian Cyprinids Affected by Hydropeaking: Insights from Flume Research." Sustainability 11, no. 24: 6998.
Hydropower plant (HPP) operations, in response to variations in market energy demand and electricity production, can generate rapid and frequent fluctuations of discharge in rivers downstream. This phenomenon, termed hydropeaking, may negatively impact fish populations. The present study aims to investigate the effects of hydropeaking on the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) habitat conditions. A two-dimensional (2D) model was used to obtain the habitat suitability downstream of a HPP. The influence of the ecological flow (E-flow) regime on the habitat conditions and flow fluctuations owing to hydropeaking was assessed. COSH-Tool was applied to the sub-daily flow series to quantify and characterize the rapid fluctuations (with and without an E-flow regime) with the purpose of assessing the impacts on fish habitat. The monthly distribution of peaking events showed a marked seasonal pattern associated with the Mediterranean climate, with most of the rapid fluctuations concentrated during the wet season. A peaking event occurred within three days of the low flow period. Approximately 80% of the 10-year time series returned a zero value of discharge (no power production). The median of the rates of stage (water level change during an increase or decrease of flow divided by the time of that change) resulted in 30.7 and 28.3 cm/h when the E-flow regime was not considered, and the rate of change was 26.3 and 22.4 cm/h when the E-flow regime was considered respectively for rapid increases and decreases. The flow ratio (peak flow divided by base flow) obtained for the E-flow regime was 334.3. Results showed that the hydrologic parameters associated with hydropeaking are attenuated with the E-flow regime. In certain cases, the E-flow regime should be regarded as an alternative mitigation measure for rivers subjected to hydropeaking.
Isabel Boavida; Leonor Caetano; António N. Pinheiro. E-flows to reduce the hydropeaking impacts on the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) habitat. An effectiveness assessment based on the COSH Tool application. Science of The Total Environment 2019, 699, 134209 .
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, Leonor Caetano, António N. Pinheiro. E-flows to reduce the hydropeaking impacts on the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) habitat. An effectiveness assessment based on the COSH Tool application. Science of The Total Environment. 2019; 699 ():134209.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; Leonor Caetano; António N. Pinheiro. 2019. "E-flows to reduce the hydropeaking impacts on the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) habitat. An effectiveness assessment based on the COSH Tool application." Science of The Total Environment 699, no. : 134209.
Peak-operating hydropower plants are usually the energy grid’s backbone by providing flexible energy production. At the same time, hydropeaking operations are considered one of the most adverse impacts on rivers, whereby aquatic organisms and their life-history stages can be affected in many ways. Therefore, we propose specific seasonal regulations to protect ecologically sensitive life cycle stages. By reviewing hydropeaking literature, we establish a framework for hydrological mitigation based on life-history stages of salmonid fish and their relationship with key parameters of the hydrograph. During migration and spawning, flows should be kept relatively stable, and a flow cap should be implemented to prevent the dewatering of spawning grounds during intragravel life stages. While eggs may be comparably tolerant to dewatering, post-hatch stages are very vulnerable, which calls for minimizing or eliminating the duration of drawdown situations and providing adequate minimum flows. Especially emerging fry are extremely sensitive to flow fluctuations. As fish then grow in size, they become less vulnerable. Therefore, an ‘emergence window’, where stringent thresholds on ramping rates are enforced, is proposed. Furthermore, time of day, morphology, and temperature changes must be considered as they may interact with hydropeaking. We conclude that the presented mitigation framework can aid the environmental enhancement of hydropeaking rivers while maintaining flexible energy production.
Daniel Hayes; Miguel Moreira; Isabel Boavida; Melanie Haslauer; Günther Unfer; Bernhard Zeiringer; Franz Greimel; Stefan Auer; Teresa Ferreira; Stefan Schmutz. Life Stage-Specific Hydropeaking Flow Rules. Sustainability 2019, 11, 1547 .
AMA StyleDaniel Hayes, Miguel Moreira, Isabel Boavida, Melanie Haslauer, Günther Unfer, Bernhard Zeiringer, Franz Greimel, Stefan Auer, Teresa Ferreira, Stefan Schmutz. Life Stage-Specific Hydropeaking Flow Rules. Sustainability. 2019; 11 (6):1547.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniel Hayes; Miguel Moreira; Isabel Boavida; Melanie Haslauer; Günther Unfer; Bernhard Zeiringer; Franz Greimel; Stefan Auer; Teresa Ferreira; Stefan Schmutz. 2019. "Life Stage-Specific Hydropeaking Flow Rules." Sustainability 11, no. 6: 1547.
Hydroelectric power plants managed in response to sub-daily changes of the electricity market undergo rapid variations of turbine discharge, entailing quickly fluctuating water levels downstream. This operation regime, called hydropeaking, causes numerous adverse impacts on river ecosystems. The hydrological alterations which affect hydropeaking rivers can be described by five parameters that change over space and time (magnitude, rate of change, frequency, duration, and timing), where each parameter may be correlated with distinct environmental impacts and therefore may be used to define flow thresholds and set targets for operational mitigation strategies. Thus, this study aims to present an extensive review on the so far established hydropeaking targets and thresholds regarding the outputs from the scientific community as well as from national regulations. We found that only few European countries (Switzerland and Austria) have legal regulations regarding hydropeaking flow thresholds. Other countries, such as Canada and the USA, present environmental legislation that can force hydropeaking mitigation measures. Most mitigation thresholds and management recommendations in literature deal with the effect of downramping on the stranding of salmonids, as well as with minimum flows between peak-flows to avoid spawning ground desiccation. Regarding other fish species and parameters, information on mitigation targets or thresholds is scarcer or non-existent, as well as on hydropeaking mitigation case-studies, resulting in a lack of knowledge and guidelines for its implementation or regulation. Nevertheless, the available literature indicates that multiple aspects must be considered when assessing such values. Thus, to aid in that process, we propose that mitigation targets and thresholds must be based on key species, including particular features regarding season, life-stage and time of day, which must be combined with site-specific morphological characteristics. The presented approach may benefit impacted organism groups in hydropeaking reaches through the establishment of ecologically-based relevant mitigation thresholds and/or targets.
Miguel Moreira; Daniel Hayes; Isabel Boavida; Martin Schletterer; Stefan Schmutz; António Pinheiro. Ecologically-based criteria for hydropeaking mitigation: A review. Science of The Total Environment 2018, 657, 1508 -1522.
AMA StyleMiguel Moreira, Daniel Hayes, Isabel Boavida, Martin Schletterer, Stefan Schmutz, António Pinheiro. Ecologically-based criteria for hydropeaking mitigation: A review. Science of The Total Environment. 2018; 657 ():1508-1522.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMiguel Moreira; Daniel Hayes; Isabel Boavida; Martin Schletterer; Stefan Schmutz; António Pinheiro. 2018. "Ecologically-based criteria for hydropeaking mitigation: A review." Science of The Total Environment 657, no. : 1508-1522.
Fish responses to hydropeaking may range from sub-organismal adjustments to key life-event changes. It is currently difficult to quantify these responses and to assess the potential of artificial refuges accordingly. To address this problem, two experimental trials were conducted in an indoor flume. In the first, two hydropeaking events were tested in the presence of deflectors as flow refuges. In the second, the presence and absence of deflectors was tested for the same hydropeaking event. A multidisciplinary approach combined physiological and movement behaviour responses of Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) with hydrodynamic models. These were used as a complementary tool to explain the fish responses. In the first experiment, no evident physiological adjustments occurred. However, individual refuge use and swimming activity were higher in the single-step event where velocities above 0.6 m.s−1 were observed. In the second experiment, the levels of glucose were the highest in the repeated single-step event with deflectors, whereas in their absence no visible changes were observed. The sequence of discharges affected the frequency of individual sprints and group drifts, particularly evident with deflectors. Additionally, the deflector use increased in the first peak in opposition to the second. Overall, the fish responses were indicative that the low velocity areas (<0.1 m.s−1) existing behind the deflectors were favourable under hydropeaking conditions. However, the flow complexity resulting from the presence of deflectors impaired their ability to successfully find them. The integrated approach used in this study provided novel insight considering the responses of cyprinids to hydropeaking in the presence and absence of deflectors as a mitigation measure. This study emphasized the importance of characterizing the hydrodynamic conditions due to hydropeaking, particularly after including the artificial refuges.
Maria João Costa; Maria Teresa Ferreira; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. The potential of lateral refuges for Iberian barbel under simulated hydropeaking conditions. Ecological Engineering 2018, 127, 567 -578.
AMA StyleMaria João Costa, Maria Teresa Ferreira, António N. Pinheiro, Isabel Boavida. The potential of lateral refuges for Iberian barbel under simulated hydropeaking conditions. Ecological Engineering. 2018; 127 ():567-578.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria João Costa; Maria Teresa Ferreira; António N. Pinheiro; Isabel Boavida. 2018. "The potential of lateral refuges for Iberian barbel under simulated hydropeaking conditions." Ecological Engineering 127, no. : 567-578.
The Baixo Sabor hydroelectric scheme was recently constructed (began operating in 2015), blocking fish migration immediately at the river mouth. As a compensation measure for spawning habitat loss the Vilariça River which confluences with Sabor River, immediately downstream from the Baixo Sabor scheme, was chosen for rehabilitation site as an attempt to replace the spawning grounds lost in Sabor River for the potamodromous cyprinid Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei). Restoration activities included: placement of submerged weirs with fish ramps to increase the lotic/lentic sequence, bank reinforcement, boulder placement and river water profile increase. Water from the nearest reservoir was channeled underground to the lower Vilariça River in order to increase the water flow. The most appropriate volume of water was determined by means of a 1D model coupled with the CASiMiR to determine the weighted usable area for barbel spawners. Nine spawning grounds were identified. Fish migrations began in mid-April when water temperature increased (c. 16 °C) and water flow decreased. Barbel tend to spawn in coarse substrate with shallow water and moderate current. Ontogenetic differences in habitat use were reported, with barbel juveniles preferring weaker currents and deeper zones when compared to spawners. Females also display different preferences, which are more apparent after spawning. Both life-stages exhibit the maximum habitat suitability at c. 1.5 m3/s. The habitat model used in this study was able to accurately predict the occurrence of spawning grounds, representing, therefore, a valuable decision-making support tool for river managers.
Isabel Boavida; Joaquim B. Jesus; Vítor Pereira; Cátia Santos; Marisa Lopes; Rui M.V. Cortes. Fulfilling spawning flow requirements for potamodromous cyprinids in a restored river segment. Science of The Total Environment 2018, 635, 567 -575.
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, Joaquim B. Jesus, Vítor Pereira, Cátia Santos, Marisa Lopes, Rui M.V. Cortes. Fulfilling spawning flow requirements for potamodromous cyprinids in a restored river segment. Science of The Total Environment. 2018; 635 ():567-575.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; Joaquim B. Jesus; Vítor Pereira; Cátia Santos; Marisa Lopes; Rui M.V. Cortes. 2018. "Fulfilling spawning flow requirements for potamodromous cyprinids in a restored river segment." Science of The Total Environment 635, no. : 567-575.
The rapid flow fluctuations experienced downstream of hydropeaking facilities can alter the river hydromorphology. Given the dependence of riverine fish on physical habitat, those alterations have the potential to change the physiology and behaviour of fish. We assessed whether artificial velocity refuges mitigated the physiological and behavioural consequences of hydropeaking for the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei). Hydropeaking trials were conducted in an indoor flume equipped with deflectors that created low flow velocity areas to serve as refuges. The FLOW‐3D® was used to obtain detailed characterizations of the different velocity fields, which facilitated the interpretation of fish responses. Changes in flow magnitude and duration triggered stress responses, demonstrated by the increased blood glucose levels in the single up‐ramping event for 60 l.s‐1 and in the step up‐ramping event. Fish tended to seek out velocity refuges to avoid higher flow velocities and harsh hydraulic conditions at peak‐flows, and during the longer events. The movement behaviour frequency increased when fish were subjected to the highest peak‐flow (60 l.s‐1), particularly the individual sprints, and the drifts. For the base‐flow (7 l.s‐1) and the lowest peak‐flow (20 l.s‐1) conditions, fish swam freely in the flume, whereas in the harshest hydraulic conditions they showed more difficulty in finding velocity refuges. This research presents a novel approach by combining physiology and behavioural observations with hydraulic modelling to assess the extent to which artificial flow refuges mitigate the consequences of hydropeaking. Our work serves as a model approach for future mitigation studies for fish in hydropeaking rivers.
M.J. Costa; I. Boavida; V. Almeida; S.J. Cooke; A.N. Pinheiro. Do artificial velocity refuges mitigate the physiological and behavioural consequences of hydropeaking on a freshwater Iberian cyprinid? Ecohydrology 2018, 11, e1983 .
AMA StyleM.J. Costa, I. Boavida, V. Almeida, S.J. Cooke, A.N. Pinheiro. Do artificial velocity refuges mitigate the physiological and behavioural consequences of hydropeaking on a freshwater Iberian cyprinid? Ecohydrology. 2018; 11 (7):e1983.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM.J. Costa; I. Boavida; V. Almeida; S.J. Cooke; A.N. Pinheiro. 2018. "Do artificial velocity refuges mitigate the physiological and behavioural consequences of hydropeaking on a freshwater Iberian cyprinid?" Ecohydrology 11, no. 7: e1983.
José Maria Santos; Rui Rivaes; Isabel Boavida; Paulo Branco. Structural microhabitat use by endemic cyprinids in a Mediterranean-type river: Implications for restoration practices. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems 2017, 28, 26 -36.
AMA StyleJosé Maria Santos, Rui Rivaes, Isabel Boavida, Paulo Branco. Structural microhabitat use by endemic cyprinids in a Mediterranean-type river: Implications for restoration practices. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. 2017; 28 (1):26-36.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJosé Maria Santos; Rui Rivaes; Isabel Boavida; Paulo Branco. 2017. "Structural microhabitat use by endemic cyprinids in a Mediterranean-type river: Implications for restoration practices." Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems 28, no. 1: 26-36.
Two-dimensional (2-D) numerical simulation and habitat suitability curves for brown trout in the Lima River in northern Portugal were used to predict the velocity suitability index (VSI) for various fish shelter configurations. The modeling results were plotted against fish frequentation rates obtained from previous research for juvenile brown trout captured in the Tannenbach River on the Swiss Plateau, and tested in an artificial flume equipped with a lateral embayment. New shelter configurations were analyzed numerically to assess habitat availability for juvenile and adult Lima River trout. Good agreement was achieved between the experimental results and the hydrodynamic simulation results, highlighting similarities between the preferences of brown trout from different regions. The obstacle shape and its placement at the shelter entrance greatly influence the habitat availability. The results of this study include an easy-to-use method to assist water managers in selecting appropriate fish shelter configurations to optimize habitat availability.
Rui Almeida; Isabel Boavida; António Pinheiro. Habitat modeling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering 2017, 44, 90 -98.
AMA StyleRui Almeida, Isabel Boavida, António Pinheiro. Habitat modeling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering. 2017; 44 (2):90-98.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRui Almeida; Isabel Boavida; António Pinheiro. 2017. "Habitat modeling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions." Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering 44, no. 2: 90-98.
In this study, different hydropower plant operation scenarios were proposed to assess the best habitat alternative for juvenile and adult brown trout (Salmo trutta). Habitat preferences were determined based on field data collection and translated into fuzzy sets and rules for both life-stages. The River2D model was applied to a 100-m long stream segment immediately downstream of the tailrace of the Ermida small hydropower plant (SHP) to obtain a 2D hydrodynamic description for different operation scenarios. Habitat modelling was performed using Casimir Fish 2D by combining flow and fuzzy rules. Overall, simulation results for the juveniles indicated its best habitat conditions for discharges between 0.5 and 1.0 m3s−1 and the adults for 5.0 m3s−1. Five main operation scenarios were developed according to the electricity pricing periods for dry, average and wet year. The decrease in energy revenue was calculated for each operation alternative. The results indicate that it was possible to reduce hydropeaking effects in brown trout habitat through changes in the hydropower plant operation especially for dry years. The methodology developed in this research should be seen as a decision-making tool to help water managers adapt hydropeaking regimes to reduce the ecological impact downstream of hydropower dams. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
I. Pragana; Isabel Boavida; R. Cortes; António Pinheiro. Hydropower Plant Operation Scenarios to Improve Brown Trout Habitat. River Research and Applications 2016, 33, 364 -376.
AMA StyleI. Pragana, Isabel Boavida, R. Cortes, António Pinheiro. Hydropower Plant Operation Scenarios to Improve Brown Trout Habitat. River Research and Applications. 2016; 33 (3):364-376.
Chicago/Turabian StyleI. Pragana; Isabel Boavida; R. Cortes; António Pinheiro. 2016. "Hydropower Plant Operation Scenarios to Improve Brown Trout Habitat." River Research and Applications 33, no. 3: 364-376.
An experimental factorial approach, in terms of habitat use and movements by Atlantic salmon parr (Salmo salar), was studied in response to induced peaking flow in a bypass river section in southern Norway. Sixteen radio-tagged salmon parr (mean TL 12.9 ± 0.8 cm) were tracked during a 7-day spring period with manipulations of flow. Total habitat availability was modeled and integrated with fish locations. Parr movements exhibited a wide individual variation in movement behavior with a subsequent large home range which indicated nonrandom patterns involving three types of behavioral response groups: I parr that did not move during experiments; II parr that used a defined area in the stream moving in all directions; and III parr that moved, i.e., traveled longer distances. Movement distances were strongly skewed towards many short (i.e., I and II) and few but long movements mainly on downstream direction (i.e., III). However, flow alterations clearly affected salmon parr movements, which were also significantly related with alterations of discharge and diel variations. As may be expected, parr movements were also positively related to habitat shifts. In conclusion, flow alterations and reduced light may increase Atlantic salmon parr movements.
Isabel Boavida; Atle Harby; Keith D. Clarke; Jan Heggenes. Move or stay: habitat use and movements by Atlantic salmon parr (Salmo salar) during induced rapid flow variations. Hydrobiologia 2016, 785, 261 -275.
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, Atle Harby, Keith D. Clarke, Jan Heggenes. Move or stay: habitat use and movements by Atlantic salmon parr (Salmo salar) during induced rapid flow variations. Hydrobiologia. 2016; 785 (1):261-275.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; Atle Harby; Keith D. Clarke; Jan Heggenes. 2016. "Move or stay: habitat use and movements by Atlantic salmon parr (Salmo salar) during induced rapid flow variations." Hydrobiologia 785, no. 1: 261-275.
Isabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; Teresa Ferreira; António Pinheiro. Barbel habitat alterations due to hydropeaking. Journal of Hydro-environment Research 2015, 9, 237 -247.
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, José Maria Santos, Teresa Ferreira, António Pinheiro. Barbel habitat alterations due to hydropeaking. Journal of Hydro-environment Research. 2015; 9 (2):237-247.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; Teresa Ferreira; António Pinheiro. 2015. "Barbel habitat alterations due to hydropeaking." Journal of Hydro-environment Research 9, no. 2: 237-247.
Isabel Boavida; Verónica Dias; Maria Teresa Ferreira; José Maria Santos. Univariate functions versus fuzzy logic: Implications for fish habitat modeling. Ecological Engineering 2014, 71, 533 -538.
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, Verónica Dias, Maria Teresa Ferreira, José Maria Santos. Univariate functions versus fuzzy logic: Implications for fish habitat modeling. Ecological Engineering. 2014; 71 ():533-538.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; Verónica Dias; Maria Teresa Ferreira; José Maria Santos. 2014. "Univariate functions versus fuzzy logic: Implications for fish habitat modeling." Ecological Engineering 71, no. : 533-538.
R Almeida; Isabel Boavida; A Pinheiro. Habitat numerical modelling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions. River Flow 2014 2014, 2315 -2320.
AMA StyleR Almeida, Isabel Boavida, A Pinheiro. Habitat numerical modelling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions. River Flow 2014. 2014; ():2315-2320.
Chicago/Turabian StyleR Almeida; Isabel Boavida; A Pinheiro. 2014. "Habitat numerical modelling to assess fish shelter design under hydropeaking conditions." River Flow 2014 , no. : 2315-2320.
Isabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; Ruy Cortes; Teresa Ferreira; Antônio Pinheiro. Setting environmental flows in a Mediterranean river using 2D habitat modeling. American Journal of Hydropower, Water and Environment Sytems 2014, 1, 6 -11.
AMA StyleIsabel Boavida, José Maria Santos, Ruy Cortes, Teresa Ferreira, Antônio Pinheiro. Setting environmental flows in a Mediterranean river using 2D habitat modeling. American Journal of Hydropower, Water and Environment Sytems. 2014; 1 ():6-11.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; Ruy Cortes; Teresa Ferreira; Antônio Pinheiro. 2014. "Setting environmental flows in a Mediterranean river using 2D habitat modeling." American Journal of Hydropower, Water and Environment Sytems 1, no. : 6-11.
I. Boavida; José Maria Santos; C. Katopodis; Teresa Ferreira; António Pinheiro. UNCERTAINTY IN PREDICTING THE FISH-RESPONSE TO TWO-DIMENSIONAL HABITAT MODELING USING FIELD DATA. River Research and Applications 2012, 29, 1164 -1174.
AMA StyleI. Boavida, José Maria Santos, C. Katopodis, Teresa Ferreira, António Pinheiro. UNCERTAINTY IN PREDICTING THE FISH-RESPONSE TO TWO-DIMENSIONAL HABITAT MODELING USING FIELD DATA. River Research and Applications. 2012; 29 (9):1164-1174.
Chicago/Turabian StyleI. Boavida; José Maria Santos; C. Katopodis; Teresa Ferreira; António Pinheiro. 2012. "UNCERTAINTY IN PREDICTING THE FISH-RESPONSE TO TWO-DIMENSIONAL HABITAT MODELING USING FIELD DATA." River Research and Applications 29, no. 9: 1164-1174.
Fragmentation of freshwater systems is one of the more common human‐induced impacts on the environment, and one of the most dramatic because it leads to disconnections among riverine habitats, severely affecting fish populations. To counter this form of ecological abuse, there has been a significant increase of the number of restoration actions. This work approached stream restoration from a holistic point of view, combining habitat modelling with laboratory experimental research. A 2D hydrodynamic model was used to test the increase in weighted usable area (WUA) created by different boulder placement (BP) scenarios in a disturbed site, with a widespread potamodromous cyprinid fish – the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) – as the target species. This was complemented by experimental trials in a full‐scale experimental fishway with different bottom substrata arrangements, in order to assess the effects of boulders on barbel movements. Results show that instream BP increases WUA for barbel and facilitates fishway negotiation. The findings reflect the importance of placing instream boulders in fragmented systems in order to enhance suitable habitat area and river connectivity. However, BP must be specifically designed for each case and should always be preceded by a comprehensive study for each site and target fish species. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paulo Branco; Isabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; António Pinheiro; Maria Teresa Ferreira. Boulders as building blocks: improving habitat and river connectivity for stream fish. Ecohydrology 2012, 6, 627 -634.
AMA StylePaulo Branco, Isabel Boavida, José Maria Santos, António Pinheiro, Maria Teresa Ferreira. Boulders as building blocks: improving habitat and river connectivity for stream fish. Ecohydrology. 2012; 6 (4):627-634.
Chicago/Turabian StylePaulo Branco; Isabel Boavida; José Maria Santos; António Pinheiro; Maria Teresa Ferreira. 2012. "Boulders as building blocks: improving habitat and river connectivity for stream fish." Ecohydrology 6, no. 4: 627-634.