Dunes

Abstract

Coastal dunes are Aeolian landforms that form at the interface of terrestrial, oceanic, and atmospheric systems, mainly associated with dissipative coasts dominated by marine winds with an ample supply of well-sorted sands and occurring on ocean, lake, and estuary shorelines. Distributed worldwide, they comprise very diverse climates and biomes and present a large variety of forms and dimensions related with sediment supply and wind regime, where vegetation plays a relevant role. The influence of the sea determines a series of environmental and biological gradients from the shoreline and landwards. The harsh environment characterized by the scarcity of water and nutrients, substrate mobility and sand burial, incidence of salt spray and sand blasting, high air and soil temperatures and light intensities in low and medium latitudes, and saltwater flooding in the strandline determines the establishment of species of singular sand flora and fauna that are specifically adapted to such stressful conditions. Coastal dune systems have a recognized geomorphological, geological, ecological, historical, archaeological, scenic, cultural, and socioeconomic interest and provide us with different direct and indirect benefits and resources including their role as natural barriers that buffer the effects of storms, sea, and wind. Nevertheless, they cover a really limited global area that is largely endangered at present, mainly due to human direct and indirect impacts. This has led to the development of initiatives and efforts focused on dune conservation, management, and restoration from different disciplines and government levels.