| Tidal channel networks play an essential role in tidal ecosystem functioning since they are the major flow paths for water, sediments, nutrients and biota between the intertidal zone and the subtidal estuarine or coastal area. Understanding their morphogenesis and evolution is crucial for (1) the evolution of natural tidal flats and marshes under the influence of environmental changes such as sea-level rise, and (2) the restoration of tidal marshes on formerly embanked land. The thesis can be subdivided into two large parts. Part I (chapters 2, 3 and 4) focuses on the natural tidal environment and studies the role of vegetation in the morphogenesis and evolution of tidal channel networks (objective 1). This part of the thesis can be considered as fundamental research on tidal channel networks. Part 2 (chapters 5 and 6) handles the morphodynamic evolution of a de-embankment site (objective 2), and incorporates fundamental research on tidal channel networks (part 1) within a perspective of tidal marsh restoration. While most studies on the morphogenesis and evolution of tidal channel networks are based on modeling work, this PhD provides new insights based upon field and empirical data. |
