What is a river branch?

A river branch or distributary is a stream that branches off and flows away from the main river channel, usually rejoining the main channel further downstream. Distributaries are common in the lower courses of rivers, especially where the river is braided or flowing over a delta.

River branches can be formed in a number of ways. One way is through erosion. As a river flows, it can erode the banks of the river channel, creating a new channel that branches off from the main channel. Another way that river branches can be formed is through deposition. As a river flows, it can deposit sediment on the riverbed, creating a new landform that divides the river into two channels.

River branches can have a significant impact on the surrounding environment. They can create new habitats for plants and animals, and they can also change the flow of water in the river, which can affect the flooding potential of the river. River branches can also be used for navigation, and they can provide a source of water for irrigation.