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Nebkha development and sediment supply
Patrick A Hesp1, Luis Hernández-Calvento2, Antonio I Hernández-Cordero2
1Beach and Dune Systems (BEADS) Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia 5042, Australia.
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 4, 2021
Summary
Sediment supply controls coastal nebkha formation. Higher sediment supply leads to fewer, larger nebkha, offering insights into dune dynamics and aeolian activity.
Area of Science:
- Coastal geomorphology
- Aeolian processes
- Dune dynamics
Background:
- Nebkha formation is influenced by sediment availability and vegetation.
- Understanding nebkha patterns is crucial for coastal dune management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between sediment supply and nebkha characteristics (number and size).
- To assess the potential of nebkha and vegetation cover as indicators of aeolian sedimentary activity.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative and quantitative estimation of sediment supply.
- Measurement of nebkha numbers and sizes using field data and high-resolution imagery (LiDAR, orthophotos).
- Analysis of vegetation variables in relation to dune systems.
Main Results:
- Increased sediment supply correlates with decreased nebkha numbers and increased individual nebkha size.
- Nebkha formation is restricted to the backshore under high sediment supply conditions.
- A threshold exists where excessive sediment supply prevents nebkha formation.
Conclusions:
- Sediment supply is a primary driver of coastal nebkha development and spatial distribution.
- Nebkha number, size, and vegetation cover can serve as indicators of aeolian sedimentary activity.
- Aeolian landform type provides a qualitative measure of sediment supply and activity.
