Earth Sciences

Vertical accretion trends project doughnut-like fragmentation of saltmarshes

C. J. Hein, J. E. Connell, et al.

This research, conducted by Christopher J. Hein, Jennifer E. Connell, Duncan M. FitzGerald, Ioannis Y. Georgiou, Zoe J. Hughes, and Kendall King, reveals how coastal saltmarshes are adapting to rising sea levels. With vertical accretion rates surpassing sea-level rise, edge marshes flourish while the interiors face challenges. Discover the implications of this delicate balance in coastal ecosystems.

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Abstract

Coastal saltmarshes maintain pace with sea-level rise through organic matter production and inorganic sediment incorporation. This study analyzes vertical accretion rates from 16 sediment cores near saltmarsh platform edges along the southeastern US coast. Most cores exceed the rate of relative sea-level rise, significantly so near inlets and bays. This spatial variation suggests a dichotomy: marsh interiors are nearing a tipping point, while edge marshes, benefiting from sediment influx, show greater resilience. The overall trend points towards rapid, doughnut-like fragmentation of backbarrier marshes.

Publisher

Communications Earth & Environment

Published On

Feb 09, 2024

Authors

Christopher J. Hein, Jennifer E. Connell, Duncan M. FitzGerald, Ioannis Y. Georgiou, Zoe J. Hughes, Kendall King

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