Reading the signatures of biologic–geomorphic feedbacks in salt-marsh landscapes

摘要: Abstract How do interacting physical and biological processes control the form evolution of salt-marsh landscapes? Salt marshes are shaped by erosion, transport deposition sediment, all which mediated vegetation. In addition, vegetation plays a key role in organic material within marsh sediments. The influence biota on landscapes is indeed well established. However, fascinating relevant question whether one can identify signatures underlying intertwined landscapes, infer from them dynamic behavior these coupled systems. Can detect landscape features that would not have emerged absence interactions feedbacks between processes? Here we use field evidence two-dimensional biomorphodynamic model to show interplay generates striking morphological patterns. One such pattern, zonation, consists mosaic patches, approximately uniform composition, displaying sharp transitions presence extremely small topographic gradients. describes mutual interaction adjustment tidal flows, sediment transport, morphology, distribution, thus allowing us study platforms. A number different scenarios were modelled analyze changes induced bio-geomorphic patterns varying environmental forcings, as rate relative sea level rise (RSLR) andsediment supply (SS), plant species with characteristics. Model results how responses forcings highly spatially dependent: while SS most directly affect areas closest channels, RSLR platform whole. Organic accretion very important for compete increasing rates near watershed divides, whereas inorganic sedimentation more closer channels. Increasing coastal marshes, therefore, might compensate rising levels, particularly inner portions. also emphasize biodiversity strongly controlled zonation signature acting constructor feeds back on, alters, contributes shape environments. Finally, realistic frequency distributions occurrence, nicely meet observed ones.