Can We Protect China's Northern Coast Wetlands From Tidal Dynamics by Restoring Native Species After Spartina alterniflora Is Eradicated? A Model-Based Analysis

Abstract

In recent years, the Chinese government has implemented a series of initiatives with the objective of eradicating the invasive Spartina alterniflora along the entire coastline. This has given rise to concerns about the potential for subsequent coastal erosion and salt marsh shrinkage. This study introduces a novel contribution in the form of a model-based analysis, grounded in fieldwork from the Yellow River Delta, which assesses the potential of native Suaeda salsa as an alternative for coastal protection. Our approach is distinctive in that it not only compares the flow velocity reduction effects of S. alterniflora and S. salsa, but also evaluates the efficacy of three distinct planting patterns in managing tidal dynamics. In this study, we present a significant finding: while both species can mitigate tidal flow velocity, S. alterniflora shows superior performance, which represents a novel point of discussion in the field of coastal wetland management. Furthermore, our research indicates that dense aggregated planting patterns are particularly effective during storm surges, offering a strategic insight for future ecological engineering. However, we recognize the potential limitations of our approach, including the need for continuous management to control the spread of S. alterniflora and the necessity for further research to optimize the restoration potential of S. salsa under varying tidal conditions. Our findings highlight the importance of a balanced approach, suggesting the retention of a portion of S. alterniflora while also emphasizing the strategic planting of S. salsa in high-density configurations to enhance coastal resilience.