A braided river is characterized by multiple, interconnected channels that weave around bars and islands of sediment. These rivers typically form in areas with a high sediment load and variable water flow, such as glacial meltwater streams. Braided rivers are important in the study of fluvial processes, sediment transport, and landscape evolution.
Reference: Leopold, L. B., & Wolman, M. G. (1957). “River Channel Patterns: Braided, Meandering, and Straight.” U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 282-B.