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The significance of reed beds on siltation in the Tay Estuary

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 December 2011

S. A. K. Alizai
Affiliation:
Department of Geology, University of Dundee
J. McManus
Affiliation:
Department of Geology, University of Dundee
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Synopsis

The Phragmites communis marshes occupy 250–330 hectares bordering the northern tidal flats of the Tay Estuary. The outer edge of the marsh forms a step up to 50 cm in height. Reed stems grow with densities of 90–150/m2 and break to produce upward facing cylinders which entrap sediments. Measured daily accretion rates in broken stems varied from 001 g to 0.07 g. Sedimentation was greatest during spring tides, but decreased with falling tidal range. Accretion of 16 g per stem is normal and many stem plugs have greater weight. Annual rates of contribution from instem accumulation vary between 0.9 and 2.6 kg/m2 on the marsh margin. Stem fall provides cylindrical sedimentary lumps to the marsh sediments, whose internal structure reveals nodules and thin laminae juxtaposed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Society of Edinburgh 1980

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