Critical transitions and self-organization in hydrodynamically driven ecosystems
Self-reinforcing feedbacks between water flow, sediment transport and ecology can induce critical transitions in river deltas and coastal ecosystems, with severe impacts on ecosystems and human communities. In this talk, I first review key examples of tipping points in such systems. I then show how dynamical systems theory can help anticipate unfavorable regime shifts, using examples from hurricane-exposed tidal marshes and river bedform dynamics during peak flow. Next, I discuss how spatial self-organization can reduce the likelihood of regime shifts, as illustrated by tidal drainage networks and wave-exposed seagrass meadows. Finally, I illustrate how collapsed systems can be tipped back to a more favorable state, using hyperturbid estuaries as a case study. Together, these examples highlight how a better understanding of self-reinforcing feedbacks in river-, wave- and tide-dominated systems can increase resilience under climate and land-use change.
This IFISC Seminar will be broadcasted in the following zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89466064429?pwd=po9p99eAEYVPaNI8xIIGoOIz0hOqaF.1
Coffee and cookies will be served 15 minutes before the start of the seminar
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