Abstract
This paper suggests a global model for environmental flow requirements (EFR) focusing on the regional differences in richness and vulnerability of fluvial ecosystems. The EFR in this study consists of base flow and disturbance. Base flow is estimated by trophic levels and vulnerability while rate of disturbance is defined by hydro-climatic characteristics. The EFR is set as a percentage of mean annual discharge. In comparison with the existing global EFR which is estimated by flow regime only, this model suggests 20-50% higher EFR in monsoonal and tropical savannah regions with high ecological richness as well as large rivers and lakes in higher latitude where primary productivity is low and ecological structure is vulnerable.
