Morphometric characterization of Lim river tributaries in the mountainous terrain of Plav, Montenegro

This study investigates five tributary basins of the Lim River – Đurička, Komaračka, Novšićki River, Bijeli River, and Velička River – located in the mountainous terrain of the Plav municipality in north-eastern Montenegro. The primary objective is to quantify morphometric parameters that influence hydrological behaviour, runoff generation, and erosion risk. The research addresses a critical knowledge gap stemming from the lack of detailed morphometric analyses for these basins, which are highly susceptible to erosion and flash flooding due to steep slopes and complex topography. Using a combination of field observations, GIS-based spatial analysis the study calculates indices such as basin form, watershed development, asymmetry, tortuousness, drainage density, slope gradient, and erosion energy. The results reveal substantial variation in geomorphological characteristics and hydrological response across the basins. Smaller catchments like Novšićki River and Bijeli River exhibit exceptionally high erosion energy and steep slopes, while larger basins like Đurička and Komaračka show more balanced but still erosion-prone morphometric profiles. The Velička basin, though less dissected, displays the highest asymmetry. The study highlights the significance of morphometric analysis in supporting regional watershed planning, flood mitigation, and erosion control strategies. While the findings provide valuable baseline data, limitations include the absence of continuous hydrological monitoring. Future research should incorporate sediment yield and runoff measurements to validate and enhance the morphometric-based assessments.