MOSSFLOW: Mechanisms Of Sphagnum controlling Surface FLOW
Explore how Sphagnum moss controls water flow in peatlands to reduce flooding risks. Conduct hands-on field and lab work in restored peatlands at a national nature reserve. Collaborate widely to advance understanding of natural flood mitigation and ecosystem recovery.
AI-generated overview
Project Description
Project Overview
Sphagnum mosses act as ecosystem engineers in peatlands, maintaining wet conditions that support biodiversity, flood alleviation, and carbon sequestration. This project focuses on understanding how Sphagnum moss influences surface roughness and slows runoff in restored peatlands. Damaged peatlands experience vegetation loss and hydrological degradation, increasing flood risk downstream. Restoration projects have invested heavily in reintroducing Sphagnum to improve ecological and hydrological functions.
What You Will Do
The successful candidate will conduct fieldwork at the Kinder National Nature Reserve, using this outdoor laboratory to measure Sphagnum's effects on surface roughness. Lab experiments with flumes will complement field studies. Collaboration with organisations like Moors for the Future Partnership, National Trust, Newcastle University, and Manchester Metropolitan University will broaden the research impact.
Expected Outcomes
The project aims to quantify Sphagnum's impact on surface roughness and runoff reduction, contributing essential data to scale up peatland hydrology models. This will improve understanding of Sphagnum’s role in flood risk mitigation and ecosystem restoration.
Why This Matters
With 15% of global blanket peatlands in the UK damaged by pollution and human activity, this research supports effective restoration strategies to recover vital ecosystem services. Understanding hydrological effects of Sphagnum replanting informs future conservation and climate resilience initiatives.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr Emma Shuttleworth specializes in peatland ecology and hydrology, focusing on the roles of Sphagnum moss in ecosystem engineering and restoration. She combines field experiments and hydrological modelling to investigate peatland function and restoration outcomes. Her research supports practical conservation efforts and policy initiatives to restore UK peatlands.