FLUVIAL FORMS AND PROCESSES ASSOCIATED TO MEANDERING CHANNEL PATTERN: THE LOWER PEIXE RIVER, SP

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify and characterize forms and processes associated to the meandering channel pattern in the alluvial valley of the Lower Peixe River, Sao Paulo State, Brazil. Geomorphological interpretations were based on orbital images, overflight photos, hydrological data and field works. In the alluvial valley of the Lower Peixe River were characterized units of terraces, floodplain and channels. In these units are found forms described as geomorphic units, for example, in floodplain are present, mainly paleochannels, oxbow-lakes and backswamps. Others geomorphic units are crevasse splay, alluvial fan and meandering belt. In the channel unit we documented fluvial bars, such as, point, central and lateral bars. These integrated information on morphology, and in a hierarchical perspective, allowed us to understand evolution aspects of this fluvial system. The dynamic of meandering pattern in the Lower Peixe River constructed forms and processes associated, mainly, with channel changes, that resulted in a mosaic of wetlands of distinct morphogenesis. The study shows that both natural as anthropogenic factors influence the morphology in the alluvial valley of the Lower Peixe River.