Nicola Pusceddu

Morphodynamics of a Mediterranean microtidal wave-dominated beach: forms, processes and insights for coastal management

ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to present a new morphodynamic map (1:10,000 scale) of a wave-dominated sector of a Mediterranean ria-type coast (NE Sardinia, Italy). The area has been studied since 1995 with respect to its geomorphological and sedimentological processes. Our map is produced using topographic-bathymetric, textural and compositional data collected during different surveys conducted from 1995 to 2014. The Main Map shows forms, processes and deposits of the coastal belt, as well as the main geological outcrops, structural elements and the areal distribution of seagrass, mainly Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile and Caulerpa prolifera (Forsskaal) Lamouroux. The map is useful for beach management purposes. It is noteworthy that the role of P. oceanica in the littoral area is twofold: (1) acts as a barrier to siliciclastic material from the backshore; and (2) a producer of biogenic/bioclastic sediment. Based on side-scan sonar images, the P. oceanica meadow appears to be threatened by direct mechanical damage caused by boat anchoring and mooring activities. The human impact on dune habitats has also been recognized and is related to pedestrian and vehicular transit, boat storage and infrastructure for bathing.

Bars/troughs dynamics and evolution trend of the La Cinta beach (San Teodoro OT) - NE Sardinia

This work describes the dynamics and evolution trend in La Cinta beach located in San Teodoro, it is 4 km long and composed of fine quartz rich sand, backed by well-developed dune ridge and San Teodoros lagoon. The study began a few days after the flood on the 24th of September 09, which caused the breach of 25 openings on dry-beach.Sedimentary and hydrodynamic characteristics were studied. Short-term variations have been periodically monitored since the flood and tested using topo-bathymetric digital models, derived from data acquired in 4 different fi eld surveys. Models of wave motion and hydrodynamics were created using Delft3D software. The results obtained from these models (wave ray direction, deep current distribution, structure and surfzone dynamics) allowed to visualize the response of beach to wind/waves stress, forced from NE, E, SE (wind intensity 18m/s, 10m/s). Data acquired demonstrate the hight resilence of this beach, with tendency to re-establishment of steady state with short relaxation times.

Geomorphology and sedimentology of Porto Pino, SW Sardinia, western Mediterranean

ABSTRACT This paper presents a detailed (1:4000) geomorphological, sedimentological and ecological map of a Mediterranean microtidal wave-dominated beach system and adjacent inner shelf. This map is an innovative cartographic product that integrates a range of processes of present and past timeframes. It is part of a larger cartography on the coastal geomorphology of Sardinia (Italy) aiming to facilitate coastal management practices and future scientific research. The study area is located in SW Sardinia (Italy), and focuses on Porto Pino beach, an important tourist destination of semi-pristine nature, facing environmental pressures common to many coastal Mediterranean settings. In this context, the main human impact on coastal dune habitats is described and a full environmental characterization of the beach system is presented.

Short-term evolution of the Budoni beach on NE Sardinia (Italy)

Dynamics and evolution trend in Budoni beach are described. The beach (long about 4km) is composed of fi ne to gravelly quarz sand, few seasonal lagoons are developed behind the dunes. Shortterm variations have been periodically monitored since October 09. Sedimentary and hydrodynamic characteristics were studied. Short-term evolution was tested using topo-bathymetric digital models, derived from data acquired in 3 different field; models of wave motion and hydrodynamics were created using Delft3D software. The results obtained from these models (wave ray direction, deep current distribution, structure and surfzone dynamics) allowed to visualize the response of beach to wind/waves stress, forced from NE, E, SE (wind intensity 18m/s, 10m/s). Gregale and Sirocco are the winds that generate the widest surfzone, the currents created by the these winds cause mainly longshore transportation in the early hours of the meteo-marine event. The beach shows an homeostatic behavior characteristics typical of balanced systems.

Geomorphological processes of a Mediterranean Urbanized Beach (Sardinia, Gulf of Cagliari).

ABSTRACT In this study, we present a comprehensive map of a microtidal wave-dominated beach system based on an interdisciplinary sea–land approach and with the purpose of supporting a sustainable and successful beach management. The study area is located in a highly urbanized/industrialized coastal sector of the W side of Cagliari Gulf (S Sardinia, W Mediterranean). In the Main Map (1:15,000 scale), static and dynamic features of the beach system and adjacent inner shelf are divided into thematic sections, including geomorphological elements, bathymetry, sedimentological distribution, benthic habitat (mainly Posidonia oceanica meadow), hydrodynamics and anthropogenic features. The map constitutes an example of multidisciplinary benchmark to allow for long-term planning and management of this highly urbanized beach system. It is able to provide a substantial scientific support to policy-makers towards environmental restoration and sustainable development.

Coastal dunes vulnerability. GAVAM checklist method used at three mediterranean microtidal wave dominated beaches (Gulf of Cagliari)

The study shows the results achieved by using Geomorphology, Aeolian, Vegetation, Anthropogenic, Marine influences, (GAVAM) checklist, in three coastal dune zones of beaches located in southern Sardinia. The aim is the experimentation of reproducibility of GAVAM checklist in three Mediterranean microtidal wave dominated beaches.The studied dune zones are located at three Site of Community Importance (SCI) sites: ITB 042230 Porto Campana, ITB 042218 Stagno di Piscinni e ITB 040020 Isola dei Cavoli, Serpentara, Punta Molentis (southern Sardinia).By the application of GAVAM checklist the Partial Index Vulnerability (IVp) and the Dune Vulnerability Index (DVI) or total (IV) values are sequentially derived. IV index either partial or total ranges between 0 and 1, and as the index increases, the ability of the dune system to withstand further interventions decreases.The methodology has allowed an objective deduction to both potential vulnerability and the main source of imposed changes, as well major threats/stress factors have been assessed. DVI values range between 0.47 e 0.59 and indicate medium to high vulnerability.Moreover, the use of aerial photographs also highlighted the need for the implementation of the checklist using additional parameters related to fluvial-lacustrine processes and of particular anthropogenic activities.

Coastal Morphodynamics AIGeo-WG: new geomorphological legend of the Italian coast.

Abstract from 88th Congress of the Italian Geological Society, 2016-09-07 - 2016-09-09, NaplesAbstract from 88th Congress of the Italian Geological Society, 2016-09-07, 2016-09-09, Naplesbook Edited by D. Calcaterra, S. Mazzoli, F.M. Petti, B. Carmina & A. Zuccari doi: 10.3301/ROL.2016.79