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Measuring sedimentation in tidal marshes: a review on methods and their applicability in biogeomorphological studies
Nolte, S.; Koppenaal, E.C.; Esselink, P.; Dijkema, K.S.; Schuerch, M.; De Groot, A.V.; Bakker, J.P.; Temmerman, S. (2013). Measuring sedimentation in tidal marshes: a review on methods and their applicability in biogeomorphological studies. J. Coast. Conserv. 17(3): 301-325. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11852-013-0238-3
In: Journal of Coastal Conservation. Opulus/Springer: Uppsala. ISSN 1400-0350; e-ISSN 1874-7841, more
Peer reviewed article  

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Keywords
    Accretion
    Sediment deposition
    Suspended sediments
    Water bodies > Coastal waters > Coastal landforms > Coastal inlets > Estuaries
    Water bodies > Inland waters > Wetlands > Marshes > Salt marshes
    Brackish water
Author keywords
    Elevation change

Authors  Top 
  • Nolte, S.
  • Koppenaal, E.C.
  • Esselink, P.
  • Dijkema, K.S., more
  • Schuerch, M.
  • De Groot, A.V.
  • Bakker, J.P.
  • Temmerman, S., more

Abstract
    It is increasingly recognised that interactions between geomorphological and biotic processes control the functioning of many ecosystem types as described e.g. by the ecological theory of ecosystem engineering. Consequently, the need for specific bio-geomorphological research methods is growing recently. Much research on bio-geomorphological processes is done in coastal marshes. These areas provide clear examples of ecosystem engineering as well as other bio-geomorphological processes: Marsh vegetation slows down tidal currents and hence stimulates the process of sedimentation, while vice versa, the sedimentation controls ecological processes like vegetation succession. This review is meant to give insights in the various available methods to measure sedimentation, with special attention to their suitability to quantify bio-geomorphological interactions. The choice of method used to measure sedimentation is important to obtain the correct parameters to understand the biogeomorphology of tidal salt marshes. This review, therefore, aims to be a tool for decision making regarding the processes to be measured and the methods to be used. We, subdivide the methods into those measuring suspended sediment concentration (A), sediment deposition (B), accretion (C) and surface-elevation change (D). With this review, we would like to further encourage interdisciplinary studies in the fields of ecology and geomorphology.

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