SPATIOTEMPORAL AQUATIC VEGETATION PATTERNS IN FORMER CHANNELS IN RELATION TO THEIR ISOLATION FROM THE RIVER RHINE (EASTERN FRANCE)

The degree of isolation between the Rhine and its annexes is related t o the distribution of aquatic macrophytes (bryophytes and phanerogames ). Three fluvial sectors characterised by different trophic levels and isolation were analysed. Floristic composition and distribution of aq uatic plant systems have allowed us to determine the nature of the exc hanges between superficial and ground waters. The implications of this relationship between aquatic vegetation and water origin are discusse d in the context of restoration work on ecosystems of the river Rhine.