Riparian zones include unique species and physical characteristics of areas near water. Surface water, subsurface water, and land surrounding water make up a riparian area. Hydrology, geology, location, weather, and living organisms create unique environments. It is difficult to generalize riparian areas, as there are over 700 variables affecting each watershed. 

​

Riparian areas are important for the larger ecosystem. The beginning of a stream (also known as the headwaters) occurs when rainwater collects at high elevation. Small rills and gullies flow down-slope, joining in volume as more streams converge into larger rivers. Streams can flow across large areas while transporting water and nutrients to different animals and vegetation. Pollution is also transported by streams, and can carry excess runoff from sources like agriculture fields, pastures, construction, and waste sites. 

​

Riparian zones are often studied as transition zones, which is the focus of Wetland ecology. There is a gradient between the surrounding terrestrial environment and bodies of water. Riparian structures, like streams, change over space and time. Disturbances such as floods, droughts, and invasive species alter how streams and organisms behave. 

​

Riparian vegetation (hydrophytes) perform important ecosystem services like increasing water quality, nutrient retention, and denitrification. Microorganisms like copepods and larvae, and macroinvertebrates like mayflies and snails, provide the base of the food chain for larger aquatic organisms like fish. 

​

​