7.21 - Coastal Dunes

The initiation mechanisms, geomorphology, and evolution of coastal dunes are examined. The principal coastal dune types, foredunes, relict foredune plains, blowouts, parabolic dunes, and transgressive sand sheets and dunefields are reviewed. The article also attempts to illustrate the morpho-ecological function and diversity of these various dune types by reviewing current research and presenting multiple examples from coastal dune ecosystems worldwide. The accompanying photographs demonstrate the very wide variety of dune morphologies and landform units that exist, and these are used to provide indications of the evolutionary paths of the major coastal dune types.