Abstract:

Ecological water demand, being essential for maintaining the health of plain river network ecosystem, serves as a crucial indicator for the scientific regulation and sustainable development of water ecological environment in river basins. However, accelerated urban development and the construction of water conservancy projects have altered the hydrological characteristics of river networks and the evolution of riverbed landforms, potentially weakening river ecological functions and reducing biodiversity. Consequently, ecological water demand has become a significant research focus. This review summarizes latest progresses in the study of ecological water demand of plain river network in south China. It examines the current status of ecological water demand research, identifies prevailing challenges, and systematically analyzes hydrological and hydraulic calculation methods applicable to typical rivers in this region. By exploring the advantages, disadvantages, and applicable conditions of these methods, the review emphasizes the need to select appropriate calculation methods based on the complex and diverse conditions, and proposes to refine the research on ecological water demand zoning. This tailored approach aims to enhance the effective utilization of water resources and provide technical support for ecological environmental protection.

Key words: ecological water demand, plain river network in south China, calculation method, hydrology method, hydraulics method