O papel das macrófitas na evolução morfológica da planície do médio Rio Araguaia

Abstract

This study examined the role of aquatic macrophytes in sedimentation and fluvial dynamics in the middle Araguaia River floodplain. Sedimentation traps were used to compare areas with and without macrophyte coverage. Results showed that vegetated margins significantly accumulated more fine sediments than exposed areas, highlighting the role of macrophytes in sediment retention. However, macrophyte density, measured as dry biomass, did not significantly correlate with sediment volume, suggesting that hydrological factors may play a greater role. Furthermore, in secondary channels, sedimentation driven by macrophytes led to siltation, negatively affecting hydrological connectivity and aquatic habitats. These findings underscore the importance of macrophytes in geomorphological stability and substrate composition, despite challenges such as siltation.