Tropical Forest Systems: A Hydrological Approach

Abstract

This paper briefly examines the importance of considering the rates and magnitudes of water movement in the hillslope-river system of a tropical rainforest catchment. It is proposed that consideration of water movement is a fundamental component in understanding the release and movement of nutrients in this environment. In any such analysis it is essential that the 'opportunity time' or 'residence time' together with the availability of weatherable minerais be considered. Three conditions are suggested to account for the low solute concentrations in stream waters, each, any or all three of which may occur.