Sediment erodibility in the Changjiang (Yangtze) subaqueous delta: spatial–temporal distribution and sedimentary significance

Abstract Delta evolution in the context of no sediment discharge has become a global concern, and an accretion-to-erosion conversion is occurring Yangtze estuary. This could threaten Changjiang subaqueous delta development. Sediment erodibility important indicator vulnerability. However, present future remains unclear. In this study, 37 short cores were collected from delta, critical shear stress was measured using cohesive strength meter (CSM) compared with estimates based on empirical Shields diagram. The analyzed by comparing bed simulated numerical model (i.e., FVCOM), activity introduced to discuss geomorphological change delta. CSM-derived significantly higher than that derived formula, but it better shows sediment. annual surface ranges 5% 30% CSM, indicating low erodibility. Moreover, region increases as water depth increases, opposite trend. Therefore, lower shallow area, accretion-erosion or continued vertical erosion under starvation coming decades. These findings can provide suggestions for assessment management large river deltas decreasing discharge.