Plant material that falls into the water or is washed in by rains is a source of food. Aquatic insects, crayfish and other invertebrates break down plant material into smaller particles. Bacteria and fungi break it down even further into tiny particles called detritus. Detritus is food for many small aquatic animals and insect larvae which, in turn, are food for small fish. Minnows, aquatic insects and insects that fall into waterways provide food for larger game fish.
Riparian forests are important to many life stages of aquatic, as well as terrestrial, life.
Much of our wildlife depends on forests for their habitat. Forests provide food, cover, nests and nursery areas. Bears, deer, foxes, raccoons, beavers, snakes, turtles and frogs are just a few of the animals that can be found in riparian forests. Temporary pools that form in these areas in late winter and spring are important breeding areas for frogs, toads and salamanders. The unbroken riparian forests also offer protective pathways through which wildlife can move.