Description
The videos show how the model seagrass meadow move in response to waves. We conducted experiments with different wave velocities. The wave conditions we used in the lab overlapped with a wide range of field conditions with wind waves.
The meadow of model seagrass was constructed with individual plants consisting of six LDPE (low-density polyethylene) blades and a cylindrical wooden stem. The wooden stem (grey part) mimiched the sheath of real seagrass. Two plants were colored black for better visualization.
The two images show the degree of pronation (bending) of model plants. When there are no waves, the plants are stationary so that the blades are upright. However, when the wave exists, the blades will move in response to the flow. The images named "pronated blades" show the most pronated position during a wave cycle.
References
Paper 1Lei, J. and Nepf, H., 2019. Blade dynamics in combined waves and current.
Journal of Fluids and Structures,
87, pp.137-149.
Paper 2Lei, J. and Nepf, H., 2019. Wave damping by flexible vegetation: Connecting individual blade dynamics to the meadow scale.
Coastal Engineering,
147, pp.138-148.
MIT News
