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Effects of Shoreline Dynamics on Saltmarsh Vegetation
Shailesh Sharma1,2, Joshua Goff2, Ryan M Moody2
1Department of Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, United States of America.
Plos One
|July 22, 2016
Summary
Coastal erosion negatively impacts marsh vegetation density, especially at low elevations. Despite temporary shoreline advancement, overall erosion persisted, and vegetation recovery lagged, highlighting the need for coastal protection strategies.
Area of Science:
- Coastal ecology
- Geomorphology
- Wetland science
Background:
- Shoreline dynamics significantly influence coastal ecosystems.
- Fringing vegetation is crucial for marsh stability and resilience.
- High-energy coastlines face erosion challenges impacting wetland health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of shoreline erosion and accretion on marsh vegetation density.
- To investigate vegetation response at different marsh elevations (mid and low).
- To understand the relationship between shoreline movement and vegetation dynamics in a high-energy coastal environment.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring shoreline lateral movement using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) over three years.
- Quantifying inter-annual shoreline changes (erosion and advancement) at selected unprotected sites.
- Measuring fringing vegetation density at mid- and low-marsh elevations.
Main Results:
- Shorelines exhibited high inter-annual variability, with net erosion over the study period despite one year of advancement.
- Overall vegetation density declined at both marsh elevations.
- Low-elevation marsh grasses showed a more pronounced density reduction compared to mid-elevation grasses due to proximity to erosion agents.
- Vegetation density did not increase in the year of shoreline advancement, suggesting a delayed ecological response.
Conclusions:
- Lateral erosion poses a significant threat to marsh vegetation, particularly at lower elevations.
- Coastal wetland response to shoreline dynamics can involve a time lag, complicating restoration and management efforts.
- Findings provide valuable insights for resource managers developing coastal protection plans against erosion.
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