A simulation model of water depth in mangrove basin forests

The construction and validation of a model simulating the water depth within mangrove basin forests is described. Rainfall, water table, water depth and tide data collected from a red mangrove basin forest on Marco Island, FL, was used to estimate model parameters. These included the basin spillover height, evapotranspiration-infiltration rate and the functional relationship of water depth change to rainfall, tide and basin spillover. The model was constructed with LOTUS 123 and calibrated from staff gauge water depth records. The model proved accurate and adaptable. Water depths from the model and staff gauge were correlated highly (r = 0.98). Data from an adjacent black mangrove forest featuring complex wet-dry cycling were used to modify the model. After calibration, the model provided an accurate record of water depths at the site (r = 0.89). This model will provide water depths used in a model of Aedes taeniorhynchus population dynamics.