The Smallest Rivers in the World: Roe River vs. Reprua River

When it comes to the definition of the world's smallest river, there are a few contenders that have carved out their place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Two rivers, the Roe River in Montana, USA, and the Reprua River in Abkhazia, Georgia, often compete for the title of the shortest river. Let's explore these fascinating water bodies and learn about their unique features.

The Roe River, Montana, USA

The Roe River in Montana, USA, is famously recognized as the world's smallest river, with a total length of just 201 feet (61 meters). It flows from Giant Springs to the Missouri River and was first recognized in the 1989 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records. Before this recognition, the D River in Lincoln City, Oregon, held this prestigious title. The Roe River is not just about its length; it is also significant for its depth, which ranges between 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters), and its historical significance as it was first cited in 1987.

The Reprua River, Abkhazia, Georgia

Nestled in the Gagra District of Abkhazia, Georgia, the Reprua River is another contender for the world's smallest river, measuring only 18 meters (59 feet) in length. This river is known for its remarkable coldness, which is unusual for rivers in this part of the Black Sea coast. The source of the Reprua River is the springs found in the karst Krubera Cave, adding a unique geological feature to its geographical profile.

Other Short Rivers

While the Roe and Reprua Rivers are notable, there are other contenders for the title of the world's shortest river. For instance, the Kuokonjoki in Finland is claimed to be the shortest with just 35 meters, while the Tamborasi River in Indonesia is just 20 meters long. The Kolaselva in Iceland claims to have a length of 20 meters as well. However, the definition of a river can be ambiguous, as several of these rivers are tributaries or connections between lakes and creeks. One notable case is the Correntoso River in the Northern Patagonian Andean regions, which connects two lakes and has a length of a couple of hundred meters.

Conclusion

The quest to find the world's smallest river is a fascinating exploration into the diverse geography of our planet. Both the Roe River and the Reprua River hold unique titles and features that make them significant in the world of rivers. Whether one considers the Roe or Reprua to be the smallest, they are both remarkable water bodies that deserve recognition for their unique characteristics and importance in their respective regions.

Keywords: shortest river, Roe River, Reprua River