The influence of vegetation on the hydrodynamics and geomorphology of a tree island in Everglades National Park (Florida, United States)

A key finding from this study is that tree root water uptake significantly influences groundwater chemistry and mineral formation in Everglades tree islands, contributing to nutrient accumulation and potential soil development. Researchers measured sap flow, soil moisture, water levels, chemistry, and rainfall across three woody plant communities with varying elevations during the dry season. They discovered that trees relied more on groundwater for transpiration, which lowered the water table and caused advective movement of dissolved ions—including phosphorus—from surrounding marshes toward the island's center. This process led to elevated ion concentrations in tree island groundwater compared to adjacent marsh areas, with supersaturation of aragonite and calcite observed in lower-elevation communities. Elevated phosphorus levels in higher-elevation zones were linked to leaching of inorganic sediments like hydroxyapatite. The study highlights the importance of understanding these complex interactions for managing and restoring patterned wetlands like those in the Everglades.

Sullivan, P. L., Engel, V., Ross, M. S., & Price, R. M. (2013). The influence of vegetation on the hydrodynamics and geomorphology of a tree island in Everglades National Park (Florida, United States). Ecohydrology, 7(2), 727–744. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/eco.1394