In the context of rivers, potholing refers to the creation of cylindrical or bowl-shaped depressions in the riverbed. These potholes can range in size from a few centimeters to several meters deep and wide.
There are two main causes of potholing in rivers:
- Turbulent water: Fast-moving water, especially during floods or periods of high flow, can create turbulence that scours the riverbed. This scouring action can erode the underlying sediment, eventually creating potholes.
- Abrasion: The abrasive force of rocks and cobbles carried by the river can also contribute to potholing. As the rocks and cobbles are tumbled along the riverbed, they can collide with the bed and wear away at the sediment, creating potholes.
Potholing can have a number of impacts on the river ecosystem. For example, potholes can provide habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms. However, they can also disrupt the flow of water in the river, which can lead to erosion problems.
