1) The flow regime defines the rates and pathways
by which precipitation enters and circulates within
river channels, lakes, wetlands, and connecting
groundwaters, and the residence time of water in
the ecosystem.
2) Sediment and organic matter inputs provide raw
material to create physical habitat structure, refugia,
and nutrient storage and supply.
3) Thermal and light characteristics regulate organismal
metabolism, activity level, and ecosystem
productivity.
4) Chemical and nutrient characteristics regulate pH,
productivity, and water quality.
5) The biotic assemblage influences ecosystem process
rates and community structure.