Interaction of waves and currents with kelp forests (Macrocystis pyrifera): Insights from a dynamically scaled laboratory model

摘要: The interaction of surface waves and currents with kelp forests was examined under controlled conditions using a dynamically matched 1/25-scale physical model in laboratory flume. In experiments mimics, increased the time-averaged drag by factor 2 altered shape current profiles. Relative motion between water wake generation turbulence, resulting turbulent kinetic energies 2–5 times larger, eddy viscosities 20–50% than for without waves. Because mixing lengths were reduced to wake-scales forest, 25–50% smaller when absent. kelp-forest canopy where solid obstacles most densely spaced, wave orbital velocities , 10% from linear theory predictions. This decrease is thought result primarily inertial forces exerted on kelp. Stokes drift 20% as change velocities. Although hydrodynamics within are more complex wide range flow can occur, results suggest that (1) forest waves; (2) properties be forces; (3) production turbulence caused may main source dense stands. Interactions must therefore taken into account developing models these systems.