Mudflats and Saltmarshes

Question 1

Where do they occur?

Answer 1

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

Question 1

Saltmarsh Formation Stage I

Answer 1

• 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).

Question 2

Saltmarsh Formation Stage II

Answer 2

• 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.

Question 3

Saltmarsh Formation Stage III

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Saltmarsh Formation Stage IV

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Saltmarsh Formation Stage V

Answer 5

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