3D numerical model of ecohydrodynamics for shallow waters

Abstract

A new modeling system for the calculation of ecohydrodynamics in shallow water bodies is developed. It consists of three interacting components: hydrodynamics, sediment transport and ecodynamics. The system takes into account changes in the light absorption in the water due to presence of phytoplankton and suspended sediments as well as in the bottom friction due to presence of bottom vegetation. The bottom friction in turn affects the currents and turbulence that govern the transport and dispersion of nutrients which are necessary for the growth of phytoplankton and bottom vegetation. The turbulent mixing influences the resuspension of sediments that changes absorption of light in the water, affecting the bottom vegetation growth. The influence of model feedbacks on the biochemical characteristics of shallow Lake Markermeer (the Netherlands) was studied. Results of modeling show good quantitative agreement with measurements of temperature, nutrients, and dissolved oxygen. Good qualitative agreement of bottom concentration of periphyton with measured field of bottom plants was also obtained.