Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of braided rivers?

Braided rivers are characterized by multiple channels that weave around islands or sandbars, often creating a complex, intertwined structure. One of the key traits of braided rivers is their high sediment load, which causes the channels to be wide and shallow rather than deep, resulting in a high width-to-depth ratio. The sediment typically consists of sand, gravel, and pebbles, contributing to the river's dynamic and changing nature.

The banks of braided rivers generally tend to be low and wide, making them less steep compared to other river types. This configuration allows the channels to shift and change course more easily. Consequently, the presence of steep and narrow banks is not aligned with the overarching characteristics of a braided river's morphology. Instead, braided rivers are characterized by features that allow for significant movement and redistribution of material, leading to extremely erodible banks due to the constant changes in flow and sediment dynamics.

In contrast, the other options accurately describe features associated with braided rivers, including their ability to carry a high level of sediment, a tendency to have a larger width-to-depth ratio, and banks that can be highly erodible due to the dynamic nature of sediment transport and channel movement. Thus, the identified option is inconsistent with the fundamental characteristics of braided rivers