Physics in the Roots: Development of a Wave-tank Prototype to Measure Mangrove Stress and Strain

Mangroves are coastal trees that develop dense above-ground root networks, which dissipate wave energy and trap sediments, serving as natural seawalls. These systems also provide habitats for environmentally and commercially important fish species. With sea-level rise and storm-driven erosion heightening risks to low-lying urban coasts, there is an increasing need for effective seawall designs, including the installation of artificial mangroves. Distinct from previous studies focusing on fluid dynamics around roots, our project investigates which root structures best withstand mechanical strain under wave pressure. We sketched and 3D-printed idealized mangrove root arrays with varied branching and spacing in preparation for controlled testing in a custom-built wave tank (a flume model). The wave tank allows us to pair strain gauges and flow meters with these models to quantify load sharing, wave attenuation, and current dissipation. This study is being done in parallel with the placement of strain gauges on wild mangroves. We are collaborating with the Georgia Tech Robotics Group, using their Aqua MIR Robot —a thin, highly maneuverable underwater platform —to investigate how mangrove root systems expand below the waterline and to enhance our designs further. This work is part of a broader effort to advance climate resilience focused on the South Florida region, while also enabling us to maximize coastline protection through the installation of trees bearing this root structure.