The Entropic Braiding Index (<i>eBI</i>): A Robust Metric to Account for the Diversity of Channel Scales in Multi‐Thread Rivers

Abstract The Braiding Index ( BI ), defined as the average count of intercepted channels per cross‐section, is a widely used metric for characterizing multi‐thread river systems. However, it does not account diversity (e.g., in terms water discharge) within different cross‐sections, omitting important information related to system complexity. Here we present modification BI, Entropic eBI which augments content by using Shannon Entropy encode each cross section. interpreted number “effective channels” allowing direct comparison with traditional . We demonstrate potential ratio BI/eBI quantify channel disparity, differentiate types systems (braided vs. anastomosed), and assess effect discharge variability, such seasonal flooding, on cross‐section stability.