Two-dimensional modeling of hydrodynamics and sediment transport in the San Pedro tidal creek (Cadiz Bay): Morphodynamical implications

Abstract

A two-dimensional, nonlinear, finite-difference, hydrodynamic/suspended-sediment transport coupled model was applied to the San Pedro tidal creek (Cadiz Bay, Spain) to study the characteristics of the principal tidal constituents (M2, S2, K1, and O1) and sediment transport. Results show a clear predominance of the semidiurnal tide, with more than 95% of the system’s total energy and related currents up to 1 m s–1 in some areas. Current velocity asymmetries, related to nonlinear interaction effects, are mainly flood-directed all along the creek except at the mouth, where they are influenced by morpho-bathymetric characteristics. In these areas, the local asymmetries are clearly correlated to the net transport of sediment through the creek’s course, which suggests the absence of morphodynamical balance in the present creek’s evolution after human interventions that have modified its natural configuration. Key words: San Pedro creek, numerical model, tidal hydrodynamics, sediment transport.