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Optimal wave reflection as a mechanism for seagrass self-organization.


ABSTRACT: Ecosystems threatened by climate change can boost their resilience by developing spatial patterns. Spatially regular patterns in wave-exposed seagrass meadows are attributed to self-organization, yet underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we show that these patterns could emerge from feedbacks between wave reflection and seagrass-induced bedform growth. We derive a theoretical model for surface waves propagating over a growing seagrass bed. Wave-induced bed shear stress shapes bedforms which, in turn, trigger wave reflection. Numerical simulations show seagrass pattern development once wave forcing exceeds a critical amplitude. In line with Mediterranean Sea field observations, these patterns have half the wavelength of the forcing waves. Our results raise the hypothesis that pattern formation optimizes the potential of seagrass meadows to reflect wave energy, and a clear direction for future field campaigns. If wave-reflecting pattern formation increases ecosystem resilience under globally intensifying wave climates, these ecosystems may inspire nature-based coastal protection measures.

SUBMITTER: van de Vijsel RC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10662035 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Optimal wave reflection as a mechanism for seagrass self-organization.

van de Vijsel Roeland C RC   Hernández-García Emilio E   Orfila Alejandro A   Gomila Damià D  

Scientific reports 20231120 1


Ecosystems threatened by climate change can boost their resilience by developing spatial patterns. Spatially regular patterns in wave-exposed seagrass meadows are attributed to self-organization, yet underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we show that these patterns could emerge from feedbacks between wave reflection and seagrass-induced bedform growth. We derive a theoretical model for surface waves propagating over a growing seagrass bed. Wave-induced bed shear stress shapes bedf  ...[more]

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