A creek is surface water flowing within the bed and banks of a channel. The creek responds to surface and groundwater fluxes that modify it's flow and depth. Creeks are important conduits in the water cycle for groundwater recharge and corridors for fish or wildlife migration. The habitat in the immediate vicinity of a creek is called a riparian zone. Creeks play an important role in connecting fragmented habitats and thus in conserving biodiversity. The study and protection of creeks and waterways is a important part of environmental geography.