Distributary vs. Tributary: What's the Difference?

Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 26, 2023

A Distributary is a river branch flowing away from the main stream, while a Tributary is a river or stream flowing into a larger one.

Key Differences

Both Distributary and Tributary refer to river systems, but they represent opposite actions within that system. A Distributary is a branch of a river that flows away from its main course, often found in delta regions. In contrast, a Tributary is a smaller river or stream that feeds into a larger river, adding to its volume.

The formation of a Distributary is commonly seen in regions where a river deposits sediment as it enters a still body of water, like an ocean or a lake. Over time, this sediment build-up can cause the river to branch out, creating Distributaries. On the other hand, Tributaries can begin from various sources, such as springs or rain runoff, and they join the main river, contributing to its flow.

Distributaries play a crucial role in dispersing the water and sediment from the main river, often aiding in the formation of fertile lands in the delta regions. Tributaries, on the other hand, are essential for supplying water to the main river, ensuring it maintains its flow, especially during dry periods.

To understand their significance in a river system, one could imagine the main river as a tree. The Distributaries would be analogous to the branches growing outwards, spreading and expanding. In contrast, Tributaries would represent the roots, drawing in water and nutrients to feed the main body.

In a hydrological context, while Distributaries help in the dispersion and distribution of water, Tributaries are more about the collection and contribution of water and sediments to the primary river system.

Comparison Chart

Direction

Flows away from the main river.

Flows into the main river.

Formation

Often forms in delta regions due to sediment deposition.

Begins from various sources and feeds into larger rivers.

Function

Disperses water and sediment.

Supplies water and sediment.

Example

The Mississippi River has several distributaries.

The Missouri River is a tributary of the Mississippi.

Importance

Aids in land formation and dispersal of water.

Crucial for maintaining river flow and volume.

Distributary and Tributary Definitions

Distributary

River segment diverting water from the main stream.

A Distributary often reduces the water pressure in the primary river channel.

Tributary

A subsidiary river providing additional water and sediments.

The Tributary played a key role in maintaining the river's flow during the dry season.

Distributary

An offshoot of a river, especially in delta areas.

The Ganges River has a significant Distributary system.

Tributary

A river or stream feeding into a larger one.

The Tributary added fresh water to the main river.

Distributary

A branch of a river flowing away from its main course.

The formation of a Distributary led to increased land fertility downstream.

Tributary

A smaller watercourse joining a main river.

The Nile River has several Tributaries that supply it with water.

Distributary

A secondary watercourse splitting from the main river.

The Distributary carries water to multiple regions in the delta.

Tributary

An inflow source contributing to a larger river system.

Rainfall in the mountains created a new Tributary.

Distributary

A channel that distributes river water to different areas.

The Distributary ensures that the delta region receives ample water.

Tributary

A water stream that doesn't flow independently to the sea.

This Tributary merges with the main river before reaching the ocean.

Distributary

A branch of a river that flows away from the main stream.

Tributary

A stream that flows into a larger stream or other body of water.

Distributary

That distributes.

Tributary

A ruler or nation that pays tribute.

Distributary

(hydrology) A stream of water (either natural or artificial) that branches off and flows away from a main stream channel.

Tributary

Making additions or yielding supplies; contributory.

Distributary

Tending to distribute or be distributed; that distributes; distributive.

Tributary

Paid in tribute.

Distributary

A branch of a river that flows away from the main stream and does not rejoin it

Tributary

Paying tribute

A tributary colony.

Tributary

(hydrology) A natural water stream that flows into a larger river or other body of water.

Tributary

(anatomy) A vein which drains into a another vein.

The great saphenous vein is a tributary of the femoral vein.

Tributary

A nation, state, or other entity that pays tribute.

Tributary

Related to the paying of tribute.

Tributary

Subordinate; inferior

Tributary

Yielding supplies of any kind; serving to form or make up, a greater object of the same kind, as a part, branch, etc.; contributing.

The Ohio has many tributary streams, and is itself tributary to the Mississippi.

Tributary

Paying tribute to another, either from compulsion, as an acknowledgment of submission, or to secure protection, or for the purpose of purchasing peace.

[Julius] unto Rome made them tributary.

Tributary

Hence, subject; subordinate; inferior.

He to grace his tributary gods.

Tributary

Paid in tribute.

Tributary

Yielding supplies of any kind; serving to form or make up, a greater object of the same kind, as a part, branch, etc.; contributing; as, the Ohio has many tributary streams, and is itself tributary to the Mississippi.

Tributary

A ruler or state that pays tribute, or a stated sum, to a conquering power, for the purpose of securing peace and protection, or as an acknowledgment of submission, or for the purchase of security.

Tributary

A stream or river flowing into a larger river or into a lake; an affluent.

Tributary

A branch that flows into the main stream

Tributary

Of a stream; flowing into a larger stream

Tributary

Paying tribute;

A tributary colony

Tributary

Tending to bring about; being partly responsible for;

Working conditions are not conducive to productivity

The seaport was a contributing factor in the growth of the city

A contributory factor

FAQs

What direction does a Distributary flow in relation to the main river?

A Distributary flows away from the main river.

Where are Tributaries commonly found?

Tributaries can be found anywhere along the main river, beginning from various sources.

Do Distributaries reduce the water flow in the main river?

Yes, Distributaries can divert and reduce the water flow in the main river.

Can a Distributary be considered a separate river?

While a Distributary branches from the main river, it's considered part of the same river system.

Can a river have multiple Tributaries?

Yes, a river can have several Tributaries feeding into it.

Is a Tributary a smaller river?

Yes, a Tributary is typically smaller and feeds into a larger river.

Why are Distributaries important in delta regions?

Distributaries disperse water and sediment, aiding in land formation and nutrient distribution in deltas.

Can human activities influence the formation of Distributaries?

Yes, activities like dam construction can influence water flow and potentially form Distributaries.

What causes the formation of a Distributary?

Sediment deposition at river mouths, often in deltas, can lead to the formation of Distributaries.

Are all Tributaries freshwater sources?

Most Tributaries are freshwater sources, but their water quality may vary.

Can a Distributary merge back into the main river?

Typically, a Distributary flows away and doesn't merge back, but river courses can change over time.

Is the water in a Distributary typically fresher than the main river?

The water quality in a Distributary often mirrors that of the main river at the point of divergence.

Are Tributaries always naturally occurring?

While most are natural, some Tributaries can be man-made, like drainage channels.

Which is larger, a Distributary or a Tributary?

It varies, but generally, a Tributary might be larger than a Distributary.

Do Tributaries only exist in large river systems?

No, Tributaries can feed into rivers of any size.

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About Author

Written by

Janet White

Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.

Edited by

Harlon Moss

Harlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.