The evolution of tidal creek networks, mary river, northern Australia

摘要: Tidal creek networks have in 50 years extended over 30 km inland across the coastal plains of Mary River northern Australia, invading freshwater wetlands and destroying associated vegetation. The grown at an exponential rate through a combination main channel extension tributary development, with concomitant widening creeks. A large tidal range, very small elevational differences plains, availability preexisting lines (notably form palaeochannels) been major factors contributing to rapid expansion. Close parallels exist between these terrestrial as regards modes growth planimetric properties. is initiated when diffuse flow seepage zone becomes concentrated localized scour. Subsequent development characterized by long first-order channels, most addition occurring later. Model tests suggest that branching was more likely on exterior links early stages but interior link became equally time. Although headward limits creeks seem reached, infilling will continue progress upstream. Only downstream parts stable drainage density being approached. The not only satisfy laws network composition basic postulates random model also depart from topologic randomness similar ways networks. Both length properties changed during evolution largely rather than scale. close correspondence may be due low relief relatively unconstrained nature which space determining factor.