Mudflats • Saltmarshes • Sea level changes •
Process relationships

Mudflat/Saltmarsh process relationships

The development of most saltmarshes is dependent on the existence of a tidal flat which is capable of reducing wave and tidal energy sufficiently to allow sedimentation and vegetation to colonise at the landward extremity. The relationship between mudflat and saltmarsh is more complex than this, however, and involves morphological and sedimentological feedbacks. Three major interactions are relevant:

The interdependency of the saltmarsh and mudflat means that each one has a much better chance of survival if the other is present. Mudflats do exist without saltmarshes, but they are prone to erosion, especially on their upper levels and where waves are reflected from hard defences or natural cliffs. Saltmarshes can also exist without mudflats, but these are usually protected by some other form of defence, natural or artificial. If no protection is available at the seaward edge, then a marsh cliff will tend to form and may recede slowly landwards. The combined saltmarsh/mudflat landform is efficient and should be considered as one unit by coastal managers.