Assessment of the Potential consequences of large-scale eradication of Spartina anglica from the Tamar Estuary

Abstract

Spartina anglica is a vigorous exotic perennial salt marsh grass typically inhabiting the upper intertidal zone of temperate estuaries. Following its introduction into the Tamar Estuary, Tasmania, patterns of sediment deposition and erosion have been significantly altered. This paper presents the background to an interdisciplinary approach used to determine the potential impacts of the wide scale eradication of S. anglica, from what is now Australia's largest infestation. Analysis of these interdisciplinary lines of inquiry have provided a greater understanding of the biogeomorphological responses to restoration attempts within intertidal zones and have provided a sound basis on which to formulate and implement future management of Spartina.