Wave Attenuation as a Function of Saltmarsh Vegetation Phenology in the Wadden Sea: A Coupled Hydrodynamic-Ecological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69760/portuni.0105007Keywords:
Salt marsh, wave attenuation, vegetation phenology, Wadden Sea, SWAN, Spartina anglica, Puccinellia maritima, nature-based solutions, coastal resilienceAbstract
Salt marshes play a vital role in reducing wave energy, thus protecting coastlines. However, this function varies seasonally, depending on vegetation growth. This study quantitatively examines seasonal wave attenuation in a Wadden Sea salt marsh using a coupled eco-hydrodynamic approach. Field data on Spartina anglica and Puccinellia maritima were integrated with the SWAN model across three seasonal phases: summer growth, autumn senescence, and winter dormancy. Results showed an 80% drop in biomass and stem stiffness from summer to winter. Wave modeling during a typical storm revealed attenuation rising from 55% in winter to over 90% in summer. The findings expose a seasonal protection gap, with lowest vegetation defense during peak winter storm risk. This highlights the need for seasonally responsive coastal management strategies under changing climate conditions.
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