Substrate (marine biology)

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Stream substrate (sediment) is the material that rests at the bottom of a stream. There are several classification guides. One is:

Mud – Comprised of silt and clay.
Sand – Particles between 0.06 and 2 mm in diameter.
Granule – Between 2 and 4 mm in diameter.
Pebble – Between 4 – 64 mm in diameter.
Cobble – between 6.4 and 25.6 cm in diameter
Boulder – more than 25.6 cm in diameter.

Stream substrate can effect the life found within the stream habitat. Muddy streams generally have more sediment in the water, reducing clarity. Clarity is one guide to stream health.

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