Tidal asymmetry in mangrove creeks

Abstract

A simple analytical model for flow in the creeks is formulated, built up and applied in the real conditions in Nang Hai creek, Can Gio mangrove Biosphere Reserve (Ho Chi Minh city).Observed data of current speed and water level in the creek in the year of 2005 were used to find the friction coefficients in the mangrove swamp and to apply in the model. Results from calculated modeling show obviously the tidal asymmetry in mangrove creek. The peaks of current speed at flood and ebb tides are not equal as the swamp is inundated. The friction coefficients have the great influence in the tidal asymmetry. The friction coefficient in the creek can change remarkably the current speed in the creek, inducing the changes of the current speed peaks. The friction coefficient in the swamp has much less influenced to the current speed in the creeks.