Bouma, T.J.; de Vries, M.; Herman, P.M.J.; Low, E.; Peralta, G.; van Duren, L. (2002). Patterns and processes in intertidal vegetation, in: ECSA Local Meeting: Ecological structures and functions in the Scheldt Estuary: from past to future, Antwerp, Belgium October 7-10, 2002: abstract book. pp. 40
In: (2002). ECSA Local Meeting: Ecological structures and functions in the Scheldt Estuary: from past to future, Antwerp, Belgium October 7-10, 2002: abstract book. University of Antwerp: Antwerp. 73 + 1 cd-rom pp.
The salt marshes along the Western Scheldt Estuary have very distinct spatial vegetation patterns, depending on salinity (between marshes), elevational gradients (within marshes) and hydrodynamics (within marshes). We will start with a brief description of the plant species distribution both within and between marshes, briefly explain some of the most important underlying physiological plant characteristics, and briefly elucidate some of the consequences for biochemical processes (research focus of former NIOO-department of Littoral Vegetations). We will then introduce our current research on plant-benthos interactions and on hydrodynamic processes in salt marshes (research focus of the in January 2002 founded NIOO-department Spatial Ecology). This summer, we did an extensive sampling campaign to identify the macro-benthos within vegetations at different elevational heights (i.e., macro algae vs. Zostera noltii meadows vs. Spartina marsh). We also manipulated the environment for the benthos in parts of the Spartina marsh. With respect to hydrodynamics, we measured wave energy, current velocities and sediment load in the water column, during the plant growth season 2002. In addition, we performed detailed experiments in a laminar-flow flume and in a wave-generating flume, using both natural and artificial vegetations. Preliminary results will be discussed.
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