PhD Defence Sebrian Beselly

The title of his thesis is:
The Mangrove Tale: Mechanistic Modelling of Mangrove-Eco-Geomorphic Interactions

Research summary

Mangroves are acknowledged for their wide range of ecosystem services. As such, mangrove conservation has been considered one of the top priorities within coastal communities worldwide. Despite global commitments and support from countries and international organisations, the majority of mangrove restoration projects have been reported to fail.

This study aims to develop a better understanding of complex eco-geomorphic interactions and feedback processes in the evolution of coastal mangrove environments. A newly developed model (DFMFON) resolves the feedback processes between hydro-morphodynamic forcing (waves, tides, river flow, sediment supply, salinity, and morphodynamics) and mangrove life stages ranging from (dispersal of) propagules to the development of seedlings and sapling into mature trees.

The model successfully reproduces observed spatiotemporal (seasonal-decadal) mangrove development, like the age-height relationship, as well as morphodynamic delta evolution in Porong Estuary, Indonesia. The model is then used to optimize mangrove restoration strategies and carbon sequestration capacity in coastal systems. The case study observations and tool presented in this thesis open up possibilities for optimising mangrove restoration management schemes for climate mitigation and adaptation in sustainable coastal systems.

Below you can find the schedule: 

09.30 – 09.45              Presentation

10.00 – 11.30              Public defence & Awarding ceremony

Here you can watch the livestream.