Modelling coastal-ocean morphodynamics and wave-vegetation interactions

This work seeks to enhance the physical representation of coastal-ocean dynamics through integrated numerical models, advancing the understanding of intricate Earth system processes. It specifically focuses on two critical aspects within coastal zones: the influence of vegetation on wave dynamics and the morphodynamic processes driven by sediment transport.

Modeling the intricate interplay between waves, seagrass, currents, and sediment processes is crucial for developing a comprehensive and realistic digital twin of the ocean. The absence of robust in-situ observational systems can result in insufficient representation of these highly dynamic environments. We aim to integrate numerical simulations with an observational system design, emphasizing the critical importance of continuous data collection and the cohesive application of empirical measurements within numerical models.

The augmented wave model, featuring a refined seagrass representation that incorporates flexibility, seasonal growth patterns, and phenotypic traits informed by site-specific measurements, is applied to the case study in the coastal zone of Civitavecchia in the north-eastern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy. This study examines the restoration of Posidonia oceanica meadows, and their impact on wave attenuation, utilizing insights derived from the numerical model results. The sediment transport is tested in both an idealized tidal inlet scenario and along the coast of Fiumicino, south of Civitavecchia, with the aim of integrating a three-dimensional model capable of accurately capturing bedload transport influenced by local bathymetry and the advection of suspended sediments from the Tiber River mouth. The respective contributions of these factors to seabed evolution are quantified, and a feedback mechanism is further considered within the circulation and wave models.

Ultimately, this synergy aims to improve predictive capabilities in dynamic marine environments, advancing the numerical modeling of coastal-ocean processes to better forecast environmental extremes and enhance our understanding of the underlying physics.