Rivers "breathe" through a complex series of chemical reactions carried out by tiny organisms like bacteria and algae.
As previously mentioned, rivers contain tiny pieces of dead plants and animals, which is called organic matter.
Respiration locations differ. In the vast Columbia River, the water breathes most of the time.
Larger rocks in the sediment create more space and surfaces for microbes to live and work on, potentially making respiration more efficient.
The research on the breakdown of organic matter in rivers has important implications for several areas.
Moreover, the study can inform conservation efforts. If we know how rivers function, we can take better care of them.