Advances in biogeomorphology of tidal flat-saltmarsh systems

As an important type of coastal wetlands, tidal flat-saltmarsh systems provide a variety of key ecosystem services for estuarine and coastal areas, and have important socio-economic and ecological values. The understanding of their geomorphological evolution is the basis of coastal zone restoration and scientific management. This review recalls previous studies on the evolution of tidal flat geomorphology. Research focused on tidal flat-saltmarsh systems has gradually changed from traditional geomorphology to biogeomorphology which involves disciplines such as hydrodynamics, geomorphology, sedimentology, ecology and biology. It is a typical interdisciplinary research field. The paper summarizes the interaction between saltmarshes and hydrodynamics, sediment transport, geomorphology, human activities, biological activities, and other relevant processes on tidal flat-saltmarsh systems. This study summarizes the current relevant models and understanding of the dominant mechanisms that play a role in the evolution of tidal flat-saltmarsh systems. Finally, some future research directions such as the description of biological activities and development of land-sea coupled biogeomorphological models are proposed.