Ecology
Riparian
Relating to the banks and adjacent areas of rivers, streams, and other waterways. Riparian zones are transition areas between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Biological Context
Riparian zones are biodiversity hotspots—they provide water, food, and cover for terrestrial species while filtering runoff before it enters waterways. They stabilize banks, moderate flooding, and shade streams.
Business Application
Business riparian zones: the interfaces between different organizational domains. These boundary regions—between departments, between company and customers—often have outsized importance for overall health.