Turbidity maxima in estuarine networks: Dependence on fluvial sediment input and local deepening/narrowing with an exploratory model

An estuarine turbidity maximum (ETM) results from various subtidal sediment transport mechanisms related to, e.g., river, tides, and density gradients, which have been extensively analysed in single-channel estuaries. However, ETMs also found estuaries composed of multiple interconnected tidal channels, where the water suspended fine sediments are exchanged at junctions with possible occurrence overspill. The overall aim this study is to understand processes that determine ETM dynamics such channel networks. Specifically, focusing on formation due by river flow density-driven flow, dependence locations an idealised three-channel network fluvial input local deepening narrowing a seaward investigated. It channels coupled, hence, changes one affect pattern all channels. Sensitivity show that, keeping discharge fixed, larger leads upstream shift increase concentration. Both or may influence entire network. Furthermore, effect either depends system geometry dominant hydrodynamic conditions. Therefore, response location geometric explained analysing mechanisms. In addition convergence single-estuarine networks be strongly affected net exchange between branches We find considering sensitivity needed changing observed real