Tidal Action Enhances Coastal Wetland Plant Connectivity

Abstract

Coastal wetlands are greatly affected by global climate change, and studying the effects of tides on plant connectivity can provide a basis for plant conservation decisions in coastal wetlands experiencing global climate change. In our study, we quantified the structural and functional connectivity of Suaeda salsa in the Yellow River Delta and explored the impact of tidal action on connectivity. The results showed that plant structural connectivity increased with distance inland from the sea. Similarly, seed connectivity was enhanced but gene connectivity was diminished when moving inland. An increase in the tidal channel branching rate significantly reduced plant structural connectivity, and tidal inundation frequency significantly promoted gene connectivity. Tidal action was found to reduce seed circulation and germination, but this effect was not significant. Overall, it was established that plant structural connectivity is not equivalent to functional connectivity and that the effects of tides on structural and functional connectivity are inconsistent. However, in terms of achieving effective plant connectivity, tides can promote connectivity. In addition, when studying plant connectivity, temporal and spatial scales should be considered.

Keywords: Plant connectivity, Tides, Tidal channel, Yellow River Delta, Suaeda salsa