Tidal flat evolution at the central Jiangsu coast, China

Abstract

A schematized process-based model of tidal flat evolution was constructed with dimensions similar to the tidal flats near the Wanggang Mouth at the central coast of Jiangsu, China. The simulated flow patterns agree qualitatively with field observations from literature, i.e. involving tidal asymmetry, current directions and tidal wave features. The analysis of the sediment fluxes depicts that deposition occurs from spring tide to neap tide and erosion from neap tide to spring tide. A sensitivity analysis test of the morphological acceleration factor shows that the ideal value is only 1, implying no acceleration factor. The long-term mudflat evolution has been simulated starting from an initial sand seabed. The simulated morphological characteristics, including the convex cross-shore profiles with steeper slope and the southern prograding coastline with slight higher accretion rate compared with the north side, are qualitatively consistent with reality. Most importantly, the creek patterns are roughly reproduced.