Mudflats and Saltmarshes Flashcards

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1
Q

Where do they occur?

A
  • In sheltered areas of deposition.
  • Where salt and freshwater meet.
  • Where there are no strong tides/currents to prevent sediment deposition.
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1
Q

Saltmarsh Formation Stage I

A
  • Mud is deposited close to the high-tide line, and flocculation begins. (Tiny particles of clay stick together, their combined weight lets them sink to the seabed).
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2
Q

Saltmarsh Formation Stage II

A
  • Like sand dunes, ‘pioneer plants’ (eelgrass, cordgrass) colonise the transition zone between high and low tide.
  • These plants are adapted to withstand saltwater inundation.
  • They also aid in capturing mud deposits.
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3
Q

Saltmarsh Formation Stage III

A
  • Gradually, mud level rises above high tide.
  • A lower saltmarsh develops with a wider range of plants that do not need extreme adaptions.
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4
Q

Saltmarsh Formation Stage IV

A
  • Soil conditions improve and the vegetation succession continues to form a meadow.
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5
Q

Saltmarsh Formation Stage V

A
  • Eventually shrubs and tress will colonise the area (climactic climax community)
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