Submergence

Submergence refers to the condition of being underwater or covered by a liquid, or the act of causing something to be submerged. The term is used across disciplines to describe immersion, inundation, or the process of placing an object beneath the surface of a fluid.

In natural environments, submergence occurs during floods, storm surges, high tides, or tsunamis, when water rises above the land surface. The extent and duration of submergence affect ecosystems, infrastructure, and human activities, and can lead to oxygen depletion in aquatic systems and damage to soil and rooted plants.

In agriculture, submergence frequently refers to flooded fields, especially rice paddies, where crops are intentionally grown while submerged for part of their life cycle. Some rice varieties are bred for submergence tolerance, allowing survival under brief or prolonged flooding.

In ecology and physiology, submergence challenges terrestrial plants and animals; many species have adaptations to submerged life, such as anaerobic metabolism, specialized tissues for gas exchange, or buoyancy changes. Submerged aquatic plants rely on dissolved gases and aerenchyma to transport oxygen to roots.

In engineering and transportation, submergence describes situations where structures, vehicles, or compartments are filled with or surrounded by water. Submerged pipelines, tunnels, ships, and submarines require waterproofing, buoyancy control, and flood protection to prevent water ingress and ensure safety.

Related topics include immersion, inundation, drowning, and flooding.