Streambed, also called Stream Channel, any long, narrow, sloping depression on land that is shaped by flowing water. ... The downstream reaches of rivers or streams are commonly alluvial channels that have lower slopes and a general absence of rock ledges.

What does a stream bed do?

A stream bed or streambed is the channel bottom of a stream or river, the physical confine of the normal water flow. The lateral confines or channel margins are known as the stream banks or river banks, during all but flood stage. Under certain conditions a river can branch from one stream bed to multiple stream beds.

What is a dry streambed called?

An arroyo (/əˈrɔɪoʊ/; from Spanish arroyo Spanish: [aˈroʝo], "brook"), also called a wash, is a dry creek, stream bed or gulch that temporarily or seasonally fills and flows after sufficient rain. Flash floods are common in arroyos following thunderstorms.