Development of benthos and birds in an intertidal area created for coastal defence (Scheldt estuary, the Netherlands)

Landward retreat of coastal defences (managed realignment) will result in the formation of newly flooded habitats exposed to tidal inundation. Creation of intertidal habitats for coastal defence is one of several ‘soft’ engineering options that could reduce maintenance costs of dikes and at the same time deliver environmental and societal benefits. For future coastal management it is important to understand how newly flooded coastal areas will develop. Will flooded areas develop into productive ecosystems with high ecological and recreational value or remain in an undesirable state for an exte... Mehr ...