A priori selection of hydrological model structures in modular modelling frameworks: application to Great Britain

ABSTRACT Multi-model studies are widespread in large-sample hydrology. However, significant challenges remain in identifying interpretable connections between high-performing model structures and catchment characteristics, and thus in developing a coherent strategy for developing tailored multi-model ensembles. Here, we assess the importance of selecting model structures that are consistent with the expected hydrological variability across the study domain. We compare results of two modular modelling frameworks across 998 catchments in Great Britain. The RRMT framework includes model structures historically evolved in the UK, while the FUSE framework employs model structures from diverse global origins. While both groups of model structures contain high-performing members, the historically evolved group members separate between catchments in line with our expectation of hydrologic differences. We find that four hydrologic signatures organize these distinctions. Our results emphasize (1) the importance of model structure selection based on explicit perceptual models, and (2) the need to look beyond statistical performance alone.