The use of the stable oxygen isotope (180) to trace the distribution and uptake of water in riparian woodlands

Luc Lambs (1) , Jean-Pierre Loudes (1) , Marie Berthelot (1)

1 CESAC - Centre d'Ecologie des Systèmes Aquatiques Continentaux

Streamside vegetation forming narrow “corridors” in temperate regions, is typically dominated by deciduous tree species reflecting strong influences by human activities. Riparian woodlands depend on hydrological resources and have to adapt to rapid changes in water levels and soil moisture conditions. Three main water sources are typically present in the riparian zone: river water originating in the mountains, ground water and rainfall. Stable isotopes, such as oxygen 18, are useful tools which allow for water movement to be traced within the riparian zone and which help to identify water sources utilised by the trees growing in these areas.

Mots clés: Oxygen isotope; Water origin; Xylem sap; Riparian forest

Domaines: Hydrologie

Luc Lambs, Jean-Pierre Loudes, Marie Berthelot. The use of the stable oxygen isotope (180) to trace the distribution and uptake of water in riparian woodlands. Nukleonika, 2002, vol. 47 (n° 1), pp. 69-72. ⟨hal-01517500⟩