Journal Description
Coasts
Coasts
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on coastal engineering, management, conservation, biology and ecology, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within GeoRef, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 33.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.1 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Red Tide Outreach in Florida: Message Framing, Environmental Emotions, and Support for Mitigation
Coasts 2024, 4(1), 21-33; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010002 - 04 Jan 2024
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“Red tide” is the popular name for a harmful algal bloom that occurs frequently in Florida waters and has significant impacts on the environment, the economy, and human and animal health. This paper addresses the limited understanding of public attitudes surrounding red tide
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“Red tide” is the popular name for a harmful algal bloom that occurs frequently in Florida waters and has significant impacts on the environment, the economy, and human and animal health. This paper addresses the limited understanding of public attitudes surrounding red tide and the potential for message framing to increase support for mitigation action. A sample of Florida residents (n = 498) was randomly shown a digital article framed around different red tide impacts (economic loss, human health risks, ecosystem damage, or harm to charismatic species) or a control article not framed around a specific red tide impact. Participants were then queried about their emotional responses, support for red tide mitigation policies, and intentions to change their behavior to mitigate impacts. Participants reported higher levels of negative emotions after viewing the harm to charismatic megafauna framing, indicating that messaging may play a significant role in eliciting environmental emotions. Message frames did not significantly impact other policy attitudes. Results demonstrate barriers to shifting support for mitigation where public support for action is already high.
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Open AccessArticle
Geomorphic Response of the Georgia Bight Coastal Zone to Accelerating Sea Level Rise, Southeastern USA
Coasts 2024, 4(1), 1-20; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010001 - 22 Dec 2023
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Synthesis of geologic and chronologic data generated from Holocene sedimentary sequences recovered along the inner continental shelf, shoreface, and modern coastal zone of the Georgia Bight reveal a synchronous sequence of paleoenvironmental events that occurred in response to rate of sea level rise
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Synthesis of geologic and chronologic data generated from Holocene sedimentary sequences recovered along the inner continental shelf, shoreface, and modern coastal zone of the Georgia Bight reveal a synchronous sequence of paleoenvironmental events that occurred in response to rate of sea level rise tipping points. During the early Holocene (11.7–8.2 cal kyr BP), the paleoshoreline was overstepped and submerged by rapidly rising seas that averaged ~5 mm yr−1. Rates of rise during the middle Holocene (8.2–4.2 cal kyr BP) averaged ~2 mm yr−1 and this deceleration resulted in the formation of coastal environments and sedimentary sequences that were subsequently reworked as the shoreface continued its landward and upward migration. The modern coastal zone emerged commensurate with the late Holocene (4.2–0 cal kyr BP), when the rate of sea level rise averaged <1 mm yr−1. Analysis of water level data collected at six NOAA tide gauge stations located along the Georgia Bight coast indicates the rate of relative sea level rise has increased from a historical average of 3.6 ± 0.2 mm yr−1 (<1972 to 2022) to 6.6 ± 0.8 (1993 to 2022) and during the 21st century it has averaged 9.8 ± 0.3 mm yr−1 (2003 to 2022). The current rate of sea level rise is nearly double the early Holocene rate of rise. Based upon a novel application of the principle of uniformitarianism (i.e., the past is the key to the future), the likely geomorphic trajectory of the Georgia Bight coastal zone under conditions of 21st century accelerating sea level rise will be one of increasing instability (e.g., coastal erosion) and flooding (e.g., overwash, breaching). Evidence of an emerging instability within the coastal zone has been previously reported throughout the region and supports the trajectory of geomorphic change proposed herein. This will ultimately result in the submergence of existing landscapes and replacement by estuarine and marine environments, which may hasten in pace and scale given the current rate of sea level rise is expected to continue accelerating throughout this century. These findings have not been previously reported and should be considered by coastal practitioners responsible for conceptualizing risk, as well as the formulation and implementation of adaptation action plans designed to mitigate threats to the built and natural environment induced by climate change.
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Open AccessCommunication
Impact of the Toxic Dinoflagellate Alexandrium catenella on the Valve Movement of Mytilus edulis: A Comparison between Two Populations with Contrasting Histories Exposure
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 426-433; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040026 - 13 Dec 2023
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Shellfish aquaculture farms, due to their coastal position, face the threat of exposure to harmful algal blooms. Such blooms can release, among others, paralytic shellfish toxins (PST) produced by the dinoflagellate Alexandrium catenella and are known to cause the restriction of bivalve harvesting
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Shellfish aquaculture farms, due to their coastal position, face the threat of exposure to harmful algal blooms. Such blooms can release, among others, paralytic shellfish toxins (PST) produced by the dinoflagellate Alexandrium catenella and are known to cause the restriction of bivalve harvesting sites. Shellfish can accumulate PSTs in levels that are poisonous for humans, therefore making them unfit for consumption. Thus, the ability to detect PSTs before they reach the critical threshold is crucial for minimizing losses in the industry. Previous studies have demonstrated that toxic algae detection is possible with the use of an early warning system based on the valve-gaping behaviour of blue mussel Mytilus edulis. However, some studies observed the presence of toxin resistance in other species of bivalves when they are regularly exposed to PSTs. If no resistance is observed whatever the past history of the populations would be with regard to PST exposure, this species could be appropriate as a sentinel candidate. In this study, we compare the valve-gaping behaviour of two blue mussel populations with contrasting long-term histories of PSTs events (i.e., regularly vs. not previously exposed to the PSTs producer) were compared using experimental exposure of A. catenella to M. edulis. It was found that mussels from both populations exhibited similar gaping behaviour patterns when exposed to A. catenella. For both populations, the number of valve closures and closure duration tended to increase in the presence of A. catenella, which suggested an avoidance response to the toxic dinoflagellate. In conclusion, our results support the use of M. edulis without origin discrimination
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Open AccessCommunication
Indications from C:N:P Ratios in Surface Sediments along Land-to-Sea Gradients to Support Coastal Nutrient Management
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, , , and
Coasts 2023, 3(4), 414-425; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040025 - 12 Dec 2023
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Shallow, semi-enclosed coastal systems are particularly prone to eutrophication. Depending on local site conditions and historical nutrient legacies, sea-based measures might be necessary in addition to land-based nutrient removal. In this study, C:N:P ratios were combined with open-source bathymetric information and linked with
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Shallow, semi-enclosed coastal systems are particularly prone to eutrophication. Depending on local site conditions and historical nutrient legacies, sea-based measures might be necessary in addition to land-based nutrient removal. In this study, C:N:P ratios were combined with open-source bathymetric information and linked with the prevailing geomorphological and sedimentological regimes to gain insights into nutrient hotspots and understand their sources and fate in coastal waters. Land-based sediment samples were taken behind outlets at three sites in Eckernförde Bay (Baltic Sea), and complemented with ship-based sampling at locations approximately 8 m and 12 m water depth. The total carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in surface sediments increased at deeper sites. This suggests that an increased downslope particle transport and deposition regime, based on local geomorphology, might influence nutrient hotspots to a larger extent than proximity to sources (e.g., outlets). Overall, the recorded C:N ratios (mean = 28.12) were closer to the ratio of terrestrial plants than those of marine phytoplankton, indicating allochthonous sources of organic matter.
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Open AccessArticle
Forty Years of No-Take Protection Preserves Local Fish Diversity in a Small Urban Marine Protected Area
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 401-413; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040024 - 06 Nov 2023
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Small no-take marine protected areas (MPAs) in urban settings can fail to adequately protect biodiversity due to the combined effects of illegal fishing and species emigrating outside the protected area boundaries. Further assessment of the effectiveness of these areas is needed to provide
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Small no-take marine protected areas (MPAs) in urban settings can fail to adequately protect biodiversity due to the combined effects of illegal fishing and species emigrating outside the protected area boundaries. Further assessment of the effectiveness of these areas is needed to provide insights into how they can best be managed to generate conservation benefits. The Fly Point no-take MPA in Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia, was used as a case study, with the objective of examining whether a small urban no-take MPA can produce conservation benefits, despite the handicaps imposed by its size and location. Diver-based underwater visual census data, recording fish species and abundances, was obtained from 434 surveys conducted in Port Stephens (2009–2022) at three sites within the Fly Point no-take MPA and at three surrounding sites open to fishing. These data were analysed using permutational multivariate analysis of variance to determine whether no-take protection significantly benefited fish species richness and diversity. We found significantly higher species richness for sites in the no-take MPA than in surrounding areas and significant differences in assemblages between no-take and fished areas, driven in part by greater abundances of two fishery-targeted species in the no-take MPA (Acanthopagrus australis and Scorpis lineolata). Generally, fish diversity was also significantly higher for sites within the no-take MPA, although diversity was also high in fished sites adjacent to the no-take MPA. Study results demonstrate that small urban no-take MPAs can provide conservation benefits, especially when these areas have been protected for more than a decade and where high visibility and local stewardship enable adequate enforcement of no-take restrictions. Consequently, planning for MPAs in urban areas should endeavour to ensure high levels of public support and, ideally, should situate MPAs in highly visible locations, in order to maximise their conservation outcomes.
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Open AccessArticle
Detection of Beach–Dune Geomorphic Changes by Means of Satellite and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Data: The Case of Altamura Island in the Gulf of California
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 383-400; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040023 - 06 Nov 2023
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Although sandy islands in arid environments are vital protection sites for endemic species, they face constant natural and anthropogenic hazards, such as storm surge impacts and the occasional presence of off-road vehicles. Monitoring the sedimentary dune-beach displacement and balance is essential because sediment
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Although sandy islands in arid environments are vital protection sites for endemic species, they face constant natural and anthropogenic hazards, such as storm surge impacts and the occasional presence of off-road vehicles. Monitoring the sedimentary dune-beach displacement and balance is essential because sediment transportation usually does not depend on external sources, such as rivers. The latest generation of geomatic applications may be relevant to understanding coastal vulnerability due to their ability to acquire and process spatial data at unprecedented scales. The objective of this study was to analyze the sedimentary dynamics of a distinctive dune corridor on Altamura Island in the Gulf of California, Mexico. We compared three ultra-high spatial resolution digital surface models (DSMs) with geomorphic change detection (DoD), covering the 1150 m coastal stretch. We used light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data and analyzed changes in the coastline with the semi-automatic CoastSat tool. Although the orthomosaics and the DSM collected in April, June, and October 2021 show different conditions in sediment distribution along the beach-dune interface, depending on the direction and intensity of the wind, the two DoDs showed a constant sediment distribution balance of ~13 M m3 between April and June and June and October. LiDAR data along the 40-km length of the sandy island indicate that the entire island could present a similar sedimentation pattern between the dune and beach interface. The CoastSat data indicate a constant accretion of 125 m in the beach-ocean interface between 2015 and 2022. This study demonstrates that the sediment balance between the dune and the beach on arid sandy islands is vital for conserving their shoreline and all associated coastal ecosystems.
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Open AccessArticle
Video Transect-Based Coral Demographic Investigation
Coasts 2023, 3(4), 370-382; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040022 - 06 Nov 2023
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Demographic studies that quantify species’ performances for survival, growth, and reproduction are powerful means to characterize sources of demographic bottlenecks and predict community dynamics. However, they require fine-scale surveys of populations in the field, and are often too effort-intensive to be replicable at
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Demographic studies that quantify species’ performances for survival, growth, and reproduction are powerful means to characterize sources of demographic bottlenecks and predict community dynamics. However, they require fine-scale surveys of populations in the field, and are often too effort-intensive to be replicable at a large scale and in the long term. We developed a standardized digital approach for extracting demographic data on species’ abundances, sizes, and positions within video transects, enabling back-from-the-field data acquisition and therefore optimizing time spent in the field. The approach is based on manual species identification, size measurements, and mapping in video transects, mimicking what is traditionally performed in the field, though it can be automated in the future with the deployment of artificial intelligence. We illustrate our approach using video surveys of a reef-building coral community in New Caledonia. The results characterize the composition of the coral community and demographic performances as key ecological indicators of coral reef health, shed light on species’ life strategies and constraints to their demographics, and open paths for further quantitative investigations. Key findings include the diversity of life strategies with contrasting levels of investment in survival, growth, and reproduction found among the six taxa dominating the coral community (Acropora, Montipora, Porites, Galaxea, Favia, Millepora), indicating the diversity of demographic paths to ecological success. Our results also indicate that several species have adapted mechanisms to prevail under limiting hydrodynamic environments through the propagation of coral fragments. Our approach facilitates image-based demographic investigations, supporting endeavors in ecology and ecosystem management.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparing Public Participation in Coastal and Marine Planning in the Arctic: Lessons from Iceland and Norway
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 345-369; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040021 - 03 Nov 2023
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Amid a changing global climate, Northern coastal communities face a variety of challenges to their livelihoods, which are dependent on marine resources. Marine spatial planning (MSP) provides opportunities for cooperation between authorities, stakeholders, and the public to ensure sustainable marine management. Public participation
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Amid a changing global climate, Northern coastal communities face a variety of challenges to their livelihoods, which are dependent on marine resources. Marine spatial planning (MSP) provides opportunities for cooperation between authorities, stakeholders, and the public to ensure sustainable marine management. Public participation is a crucial element of coastal and marine planning for its long-term democratic legitimacy and sustainability. However, the process of MSP is often wrought with conflict and challenges of involving stakeholders and the public in decisions concerning an often-contested marine space. Whereas coastal zone planning (CZP) is well established in Norway and a reiteration of previous CZP was conducted 2020–23, MSP is new to Iceland, and has only recently been launched with its first pilot plans in 2019. This study investigates how participation in coastal and marine planning processes compare between Iceland and Norway and what lessons can be shared between them. Data were collected from two case studies in the Tromsø region in Norway and the Westfjords of Iceland through analysis of planning documentation, literature review, as well as participant observation in the Westfjords and 11 semi-structured interviews across both case studies. The results show that public participation is formally integral to both processes but, in practice, varies considerably. Both planning processes are driven by the expansion of the aquaculture industry, and a variety of issues faced during the planning process are similar. In Norway, public participation is politically desired and guided by a participation strategy emphasising synergies between expert and local knowledge. In the Tromsø region, meaningful public participation varied across municipalities and issues regarding Indigenous participation remain. In Iceland, there is little evident political expectation of public engagement, and the process is characterised by a passive approach to participation that aims to inform the public but does not include wider sharing of decision-making power. The findings do not only make clear that a revision of current public participation processes is needed in both case studies but also point towards wider issues in marine governance that have consequences for blue justice, such as the exclusion of groups in decision-making, lack of public discussion of marine issues and top–down governance supporting established power hierarchies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The World’s Dynamic and Complex Edges of the Sea—a Special Issue Celebrating the Launch of COASTS)
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Open AccessArticle
Mussel Shells from Marine Aquaculture Act like Ecosystem Engineers: Legacy Effects on Benthic Communities
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 328-344; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040020 - 25 Oct 2023
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Ecosystem engineers are organisms that cause changes in the physical state of biotic and abiotic structures that modulate the availability of resources to other species, thus affecting biochemical cycles. Molluscs, especially bivalves such as mussels, are widespread in coastal environments and they are
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Ecosystem engineers are organisms that cause changes in the physical state of biotic and abiotic structures that modulate the availability of resources to other species, thus affecting biochemical cycles. Molluscs, especially bivalves such as mussels, are widespread in coastal environments and they are excellent ecosystem engineers because of the durability of their shells, which add complexity and heterogeneity to benthic environments. The presence of mussel farms favours the accumulation of shells in benthic environments and may influence surrounding bare sediments, with potential legacy effects on benthic communities. We studied the effects of the accumulation of mussel shells at finfish farms and mussel farms by experimentally comparing bare sediment and sediment with fragmented shells in terms of the abundance of the most relevant faunal groups, specifically polychaete families as well as physical–chemical variables in sediment water samples, specifically organic matter (OM), redox potential, and acid-volatile sulphides (AVS) NH4+ and PO43−. The experiment was replicated under two environmental conditions over a period of 35 days: eutrophic muddy sediments and oligotrophic sandy sediments. The OM and AVS values were significantly higher in the eutrophic sediment with mussel shells. Only NH4+ was positively affected by the mussel shells in the oligotrophic conditions. Differences between the two environments were observed, and the effect of the mussel shells on the polychaete assemblages was more significant in the oligotrophic conditions. Mussel shell accumulations affected the structure of benthic assemblages by modifying their heterogeneity and complexity, which suggests that the presence of mussel farms above bare sediment may affect ecosystem functioning. Aquaculture has potentially negative or positive effects that must be addressed on a large scale, considering the increased input of organic matter and also the simultaneous presence of mussel shell waste, both of which alter the surrounding environment. This is particularly important in oligotrophic sandy sediment.
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Open AccessArticle
Bioavailability Assessment of Metals from the Coastal Sediments of Tropical Estuaries Based on Acid-Volatile Sulfide and Simultaneously Extracted Metals
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Coasts 2023, 3(4), 313-327; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040019 - 24 Oct 2023
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Bioavailability assessment is important for evaluating the risks to the local biota, and the combined use of several ecological risk indices in eutrophic environments allows the best analysis of the local reality for decision-making. The relationship between acid volatile sulfide (AVS) concentrations and
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Bioavailability assessment is important for evaluating the risks to the local biota, and the combined use of several ecological risk indices in eutrophic environments allows the best analysis of the local reality for decision-making. The relationship between acid volatile sulfide (AVS) concentrations and simultaneously extracted metals (SEM) allows us to infer the metal holding capacity of sediment, with the objective of evaluating the potential bioavailability of trace metals (Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) using ecological risk indices, such as the ΣSEM/AVS model and Adverse Effect Index (AEI), in surface sediments from Guanabara Bay and Sepetiba Bay, Brazil. AVS was determined using a colorimetric method and SEM with ICP-OES. In general, almost all sampling in Sepetiba Bay showed ΣSEM/AVS ratio values above 1. However, all results for the ΣSEM/AVS ratio found for the Guanabara Bay sediments were <1 for both estuaries. After normalization by organic carbon content, a possible toxicity risk for biota was found in Sepetiba Bay. However, the AEI in Guanabara Bay was above 1 for all metals in most samples, also indicating a risk to the biota.
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Open AccessArticle
Extreme Value Analysis of Ocean Still Water Levels along the USA East Coast—Case Study (Key West, Florida)
Coasts 2023, 3(4), 294-312; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3040018 - 07 Oct 2023
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This paper provides an Extreme Value Analysis (EVA) of the hourly still water level (SWL) record at Key West, Florida dating back to 1913 to understand the statistical likelihood of the combination of high predicted tides and the more dynamic influences (predominantly hurricane
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This paper provides an Extreme Value Analysis (EVA) of the hourly still water level (SWL) record at Key West, Florida dating back to 1913 to understand the statistical likelihood of the combination of high predicted tides and the more dynamic influences (predominantly hurricane induced storm surges) that can drive ocean water levels higher at the coast. The impact of hurricane ‘Wilma’ in 2005 dominates the records, producing a super-elevation of the SWL above Mean Sea Level (MSL) of 1155 mm with an estimated return period of around 147 years. This paper explores the duality of increasing risks of oceanic inundation due to extreme events and increasing mean sea level over time, whilst also providing a range of recommendations for ensuring improved predictive model fitting and robustness of EVA for SWLs measured at tide gauges. When integrated with future IPCC AR6 sea level projections, the return level plots from the EVA provide decision makers with key guidance for design, strategic planning and climate change adaptation purposes at Key West, Florida.
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Open AccessArticle
Rapid, Landscape-Scale Assessment of Cyclonic Impacts on Mangrove Forests Using MODIS Imagery
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Coasts 2023, 3(3), 280-293; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030017 - 15 Sep 2023
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Cyclones are a key disturbance in mangrove ecosystems, but it is challenging to assess post-storm impacts over large areas, along with the recovery of these systems at broad temporal scales. Given the high frequency of these events in the Sundarbans region, prompt and
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Cyclones are a key disturbance in mangrove ecosystems, but it is challenging to assess post-storm impacts over large areas, along with the recovery of these systems at broad temporal scales. Given the high frequency of these events in the Sundarbans region, prompt and consistent assessment of vegetation conditions is an important research need. Several studies have assessed the impact of an extreme cyclone event in 2007 (Sidr); however, there is little agreement between the extent and severity of the disturbance footprint of the cyclone, and very few studies attempted to assess vegetation recovery. We used a MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) time series (2001–2010) to calculate monthly plant productivity anomalies in Google Earth Engine. We summarized dry season anomalies to assess post-storm vegetation change and evaluate the recovery time. Approximately 2100 km2, primarily on the east side, were impacted by Sidr. The number of damaged pixels was reduced by 55% the following dry season (2008) and 93% in the dry season of 2009, indicating a near-full recovery 26 months after the event. Our results provide an additional line of evidence to provide a rapid assessment of the post-storm vegetation damage. The simple framework used can provide a comprehensive view of the extent of the damage, including lag effects on vegetation, in just a matter of months after the event.
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Distribution of Nematodes from Coastal Sand Dunes in the Iberian Peninsula
Coasts 2023, 3(3), 263-279; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030016 - 10 Sep 2023
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Nematodes are a large and diversified zoological group with a wide global distribution, being able even to be present in habitats with extreme conditions. Although coastal dunes can be considered as an adverse environment for these animals, numerous species are discovered there. In
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Nematodes are a large and diversified zoological group with a wide global distribution, being able even to be present in habitats with extreme conditions. Although coastal dunes can be considered as an adverse environment for these animals, numerous species are discovered there. In general, these small animals present some morphological characteristics, which provide them a high adaptability to these habitats and the ability to reach a wide distribution. In this study, a total of 222 sample sites of coastal sand dunes have been studied in order to know the nematofauna of these habitats. Thus, 42 coastal dunes from three geographical areas of the Iberian Peninsula coast (Atlantic coast, southern Mediterranean coast, and northern Mediterranean coast) were examined. A total of 120 species of nematodes were found, belonging to eight orders. The results showed the higher prevalence of the species belonging to the order Rhabditida, which were present in 84.2% of the sand dunes studied, most of them belonging to the family Cephalobidae with 42 species, while the order with lower prevalence was the order Enoplida appearing only in one dune (0.9%). The classification of nematofauna by trophic groups showed that bacterial feeders, omnivores, hyphal feeders, and plant feeders shared a high prevalence (83.3%, 40.5%, 34.2%, and 32.8%, respectively), while predators, unicellular eukaryote feeders, and substrate ingesters account for less than 11%. A list of the found species, prevalence, and trophic groups is included.
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Open AccessMore Editor’s choice articles in journal Coasts.">Editor’s ChoiceArticle
Seasonal to Multi-Decadal Shoreline Change on a Reef-Fringed Beach
Coasts 2023, 3(3), 240-262; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030015 - 01 Sep 2023
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This study investigates the shoreline dynamics of a Caribbean reef-lined beach by utilizing a long-term satellite dataset spanning 75 years and a short-term, high-frequency dataset captured by a fixed camera over 3 years. An array of statistical methods, including ARIMA models, are employed
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This study investigates the shoreline dynamics of a Caribbean reef-lined beach by utilizing a long-term satellite dataset spanning 75 years and a short-term, high-frequency dataset captured by a fixed camera over 3 years. An array of statistical methods, including ARIMA models, are employed to examine the impact of storms and potential cyclical influences on the shoreline dynamics. The findings indicate that significant storm events trigger a substantial retreat of the vegetation limit, followed by a slow recovery. Given the current frequency of such major events, complete recovery may take several decades, resulting in a minor influence of cyclones on the long-term erosion trend, which remains moderate. The short-term shoreline evolution is primarily driven by the annual cyclicity of the still water level, which generates an annual oscillation—an insight not previously reported. In the context of climate change, alterations to sea-level rise and cyclone frequency could disrupt the observed dynamic equilibrium at different timescales. Such changes could result in an alteration of existing cyclicities, disturbance of recovery periods, increased long-term shoreline retreat rates, and potentially affect overall coastal resilience over time.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Measuring Shoreline Variability and Understanding It's Local Impacts)
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Open AccessArticle
Abrupt Late Holocene Closure of San Elijo Lagoon, Northern San Diego County, California
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Coasts 2023, 3(3), 227-239; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030014 - 30 Aug 2023
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The San Elijo Lagoon experienced a sudden shift in sedimentation type around 1000 AD, as evidenced by the 14C dating. This shift is marked by a sharp boundary between a lower layer of medium to fine sand and an upper layer of
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The San Elijo Lagoon experienced a sudden shift in sedimentation type around 1000 AD, as evidenced by the 14C dating. This shift is marked by a sharp boundary between a lower layer of medium to fine sand and an upper layer of dark, silty clay that reflects the lagoon closure. The dated sediments also reveal a history of marine conditions in the lagoon basin since about 7400 ± 140 years before the present (ybp), when the sea level was −12.2 meters (m), and the shoreline was 400 m away from the current location. The sea level rose at a rate of 2.84 m per 1000 years until about 4170 ± 100 ybp. After that, the rising sea level slowed and reached the present level about 3100 years ago. However, the lagoon remained closed after about 730 to 1180 ybp, with only fine organic sediment accumulating in the basin, which coincides with a severe drought in the southwest around 1150 AD. A higher sedimentation rate is interpreted from bluff erosion as seen after 520 ± 40 ybp but without enough stream flow to force the reopening of the lagoon.
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Open AccessReview
Optimistic Scenario of 0.50 m Mean Sea Level Rise and Possible Environmental Impacts, Resulting from Tidal Variations, in the City of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro—Brazil
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Coasts 2023, 3(3), 209-226; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030013 - 01 Aug 2023
Abstract
As several researches indicate, since the 1950s one observed unprecedented warming of the atmosphere and oceans, resulting from greenhouse gas emissions and changes in land use and occupation, leading to sea level rise and impacts on coastal areas. In the municipality of Niterói—Rio
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As several researches indicate, since the 1950s one observed unprecedented warming of the atmosphere and oceans, resulting from greenhouse gas emissions and changes in land use and occupation, leading to sea level rise and impacts on coastal areas. In the municipality of Niterói—Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where a large urban concentration in coastal areas is observed, a Climate Change Adaptation System was developed, through which mitigation and adaptation strategies are combined, in order to: reduce vulnerabilities; avoid losses and damages; build instruments to allow adaptation of natural, human, productive and infrastructure systems. In this context, this paper aims to measure possible impacts, in the biophysical and socioeconomic spheres, resulting from an eventual 0.50 m rise in mean sea level, which represents an optimistic scenario according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In contrast to similar studies, this work also considered daily and occasional water level variations, represented by the highest astronomical tide and the highest storm surge observed in the studied region. The following data were applied: digital elevation model, 2010 population census data, and real estate information. With the altimetry data, by means of GIS, the census sectors inserted in the affected areas were selected, to obtain data regarding population, number of households, and income. Specialized websites were applied to collect average property values. The simulations revealed that approximately 2950 households and more than 9000 residents could be directly affected, with losses that could exceed R$ 3.60 billion. The Oceanic Region is configured as the most exposed region, susceptible to losses of several ecosystems, economic losses in residential areas and possible destruction of urban infrastructure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The World’s Dynamic and Complex Edges of the Sea—a Special Issue Celebrating the Launch of COASTS)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Habitat Risks Caused by Human Activities and Integrated Approach to Marine Spatial Planning: The Case of Sriracha District—Sichang Island
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Coasts 2023, 3(3), 190-208; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030012 - 10 Jul 2023
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According to the Thailand’s National Strategy (2017-2036) and National Reform Plans, various tools, techniques, or methods are necessary to collect and investigate data for the effective preservation and protection of the country’s natural resources. We aimed to apply various tools and methods for
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According to the Thailand’s National Strategy (2017-2036) and National Reform Plans, various tools, techniques, or methods are necessary to collect and investigate data for the effective preservation and protection of the country’s natural resources. We aimed to apply various tools and methods for integrated coastal management in Thailand. This study used the InVEST models, including the habitat quality (HQ) and habitat risk assessment (HRA) models, to evaluate the natural habitat quality and cumulative human activity risk in the Sriracha district and Sichang Islands, Thailand. The HQ model revealed the presence of abundant ecological services and high quality natural habitats. We observed habitat degradation in the mooring zone, city area, forests, and coral reefs, with moderate risk to distinct habitats. Our findings identified two potential scenarios. Conservation scenarios exhibited a lower HRA ratio compared to current and development scenarios. Overall, the results showed the effectiveness of the InVEST model in evaluating habitat risk under both present and simulated conditions. Our study highlights the importance of informed management plans and policy-making processes to achieve planned coastal management goals.
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Open AccessArticle
Development and Application of Local Coastal Knowledge: Insights from New Zealand Surfers
by
and
Coasts 2023, 3(3), 175-189; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030011 - 03 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
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Through their accumulated experiences with coastal environments, surfers may be uniquely qualified as a source of local knowledge on surf breaks and wider coastal management topics. Despite popular associations between surfers and the environment, critical enquiries are needed to establish the scope and
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Through their accumulated experiences with coastal environments, surfers may be uniquely qualified as a source of local knowledge on surf breaks and wider coastal management topics. Despite popular associations between surfers and the environment, critical enquiries are needed to establish the scope and depth of surfers’ knowledge and the processes that may influence its development. In this study, we expected that relationships between surfers and the coastal environment would be highly variable and dependent upon several outside factors, including individual motivations and biases. This broad hypothesis was tested through an oral history study of 15 New Zealand surfers, which examined the development of coastal environment knowledge through surfing experiences and explored its applications to resource management in New Zealand. Surfers can develop a unique local knowledge of the coast that is often specific to their favourite locations but can also include regional insights obtained through site-scale comparisons. These may include relatively detailed observations that are typically difficult to detect or measure and that are primarily generated through sustained surfing experiences. Socio-cultural factors, including gender stereotypes, localism, equipment bias, and interaction with accessibility, were identified as key influences on individual motivations and knowledge generation contexts. This study argues that surfers’ perspectives are critical to informing management decisions in the coastal environment. Knowledge residing in the surfing community is dependent on individual associations with surf breaks, yet it can be harnessed across meaningful scales to inform coastal management. Moreover, the generation of local knowledge through surfing experiences adds to the societal benefits of protecting surf breaks.
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Coastal Dynamics Analysis Based on Orbital Remote Sensing Big Data and Multivariate Statistical Models
by
, , , and
Coasts 2023, 3(3), 160-174; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3030010 - 29 Jun 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
As the interface between land and water, coastlines are highly dynamic and intricately tied to the sediment budget. These regions have a high functional diversity and require enlightened management to preserve their value for the future. In this study we assess changes to
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As the interface between land and water, coastlines are highly dynamic and intricately tied to the sediment budget. These regions have a high functional diversity and require enlightened management to preserve their value for the future. In this study we assess changes to the São Paulo State (SE Brazil) coastline over the last 36 years. The study innovatively employs big data remote sensing techniques and multivariate statistical models to evaluate and generate erosion/accretion rates (1985–2021) relative to beach orientation and slope. Shoreline change rates have been obtained for sandy beaches at 485 one-kilometer-spaced transects. Our findings capture the complexity and heterogeneity of the analyzed coastline, at a regional and local scale. No association was found between shoreline changes and beach face orientation. Nonetheless, a dependency relationship was found between dissipative beaches with moderate to high accretion. Beaches facing south, with relative stability, were prone to sediment accumulation. Locations with slow accretion, like sandy spits and tombolo-protected beaches, were associated with dissipative beaches with moderate to high accretion. The southeast-oriented beaches are more prone to erosion due to storm waves from the south. Results provide a broad, fast, and relatively low-cost methodology that can be used in any sandy beach context, bringing essential information for coastal management and decision-making related to the use and occupation of the coastal zones.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Measuring Shoreline Variability and Understanding It's Local Impacts)
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Open AccessMore Editor’s choice articles in journal Coasts.">Editor’s ChoiceArticle
Automated Technique for Identification of Prominent Nearshore Sandbars
Coasts 2023, 3(2), 145-159; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts3020009 - 26 May 2023
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Nearshore sandbars are common features along sandy coasts. However, identifying sandbars within a beach profile traditionally requires a large historical dataset or subjective input from an observer. Several existing methodologies rely on reference profiles, which is problematic for new study sites with limited
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Nearshore sandbars are common features along sandy coasts. However, identifying sandbars within a beach profile traditionally requires a large historical dataset or subjective input from an observer. Several existing methodologies rely on reference profiles, which is problematic for new study sites with limited data sets and for nourished beaches that have drastic fluctuations in the cross-shore. This novel technique is suitable for beaches where a reference profile does not exist, as it identifies morphological sandbar features by a quantitative automated process. The technique identifies sandbars with a minimum steepness of 2% grade and a minimum height of 0.2 m. The morphological boundaries of sandbars were previously not well-defined, especially the seaward limit of the sandbar, contributing to difficulty in comparing surveys and sandbar morphologies. This technique standardizes the definitions of the bar limits mathematically via standard MATLAB functions, thus removing subjectivity and allowing results to be replicated. Bar identification is focused on the beach profile below the mean high water line, not cross on-shore positions, making the technique appropriate for nourished shorelines as well as those with large seasonal fluctuations. The automated technique was tested on 840 profiles collected near a recently completed beach nourishment project in Long Branch, NJ, USA. Results indicate success in identifying prominent sandbars within the test data set.
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