The flow will also dictate how the sediment is deposited, which in turn contributes to the type of habitat available to different types of organisms. Three types of bedforms provide excellent "living" space, including mud, riffles, and pools. The accumulation of fine-grained sediments (mud) in quiet rivers can influence growth for small invertebrates and fish eggs. The mud represents a "cushion", and if disturbed because of increased movement of water, can cause damage to the organisms that live there.

Riffles are relatively shallow portions of a river with a change in elevation where water cascades over cobbles or boulders along its path. The fast-moving water allows gas in the atmosphere to mix with the water, therefore increasing the dissolved oxygen that enters the water system. Behind the rocks are areas that debris can build up and act as a habitat for fly larvae and other small invertebrates.

Pools of water are areas that are deeper. When water reaches a pool the velocity of the water slows down, making it an excellent resting place for fish.