Authors:
Wolters, M., A. Garbutt, R.M. Bekker, J.P. Bakker and P.D. Carey
Publication Date:
2008
Abstract/Summary:
Restoration of salt marshes on previously reclaimed land provides an excellent opportunity to study plant colonization and subsequent development of salt-marsh vegetation. Insight into the process of salt-marsh development can guide the design, implementation and evaluation of salt-marsh restoration schemes and help determine appropriate management strategies. The prospect of salt-marsh restoration after de-embankment is good, with target species establishing spontaneously and vegetation succession taking place. Because most salt-marsh species are dispersed over short distances, it is important that a well-developed salt marsh is adjacent to the restoration site. The rate of salt-marsh development and species diversity appears to be affected mainly by surface elevation. Proper elevation in relation to tidal inundation is therefore a prerequisite for the successful restoration of salt-marsh vegetation after de-embankment.
Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article
Source:
Journal of Applied Ecology
Link:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2664.2008.01453.x/abstract