Forecasting streamflow by combination of a genetic input selection algorithm and wavelet transforms using ANFIS models.

In this study, a data-driven streamflow forecasting model is developed, in which appropriate model inputs are selected using a binary genetic algorithm (GA). The process involves using a combination of a GA input selection method and two adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS): subtractive (Sub)-ANFIS and fuzzy C-means (FCM)-ANFIS. Moreover, the application of wavelet transforms coupled with these models is tested. Long-term data for the Lighvan and Ajichai basins in Iran are used to develop the models. The results indicate considerable improvements when GA selection and wavelet methods are used in both models. For example, the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) coefficient for Lighvan using FCM-ANFIS is 0.74. However, when GA selection is applied, the NSE is improved to 0.85. Moreover, when the wavelet method is added, the performance of new hybrid models shows noticeable enhancements. The NSE value of wavelet-FCM-ANFIS is improved to 0.97 for Lighvan basin.Editor D. Koutsoyiannis Associate editor E. Toth [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]