Overview of controlling factor: Hydrodynamics

Hydrodynamics involve water volumes, rates of flow, and spatial and temporal variability. The hydrology of the system affects the wetting and drying of the land surface, which has effects on plant and animal life.

Stressors that affect hydrodynamics:

  • Agriculture
  • Diking
  • Dredging
  • Extreme climatic events
  • Filling
  • Flow regulation
  • Logging
  • Marinas and overwater structures
  • Seismic activity
  • Shoreline armoring
  • Urbanization
  • Volcanic activity
  • Wastewater discharges
  • Water diversion

Ecosystem structures that are affected by hydrodynamics:

  • Plankton
  • Scrub-shrub forest emergent marsh
  • Mud / sand flats
  • Submerged aquatic vegetation
  • Shallow slope
  • Deep channel

Interactions and equations:

Contact information

Ronald Thom, Ph.D
360-681-3657

Marine Research Operations, PNNL
1529 W. Sequim Bay Rd.
Sequim, WA 98382