Geomorphology and littoral sedimentary dynamic
Geomorphology and littoral sedimentary dynamic
This research line focuses on the evolution of coastal landscapes over short, medium, and long terms (morphodynamic, engineering, and geological scales), as well as the variables and processes responsible for these changes. Given the high population density and activities along the coast, we also study the impacts of human activity on this evolution, and vice versa.
Within this line, the study of coastal natural hazards holds particular relevance. These include both internal hazards (like tsunamis) and external ones, whether generated or triggered by human action (coastal erosion due to interventions on the coast or in river basins) or of natural origin, with a particular emphasis on studies concerning the impact of maritime storms.
The research is geographically focused on the coast of Cadiz, the Gulf of Cadiz, and the Alboran Sea, covering the following aspects:
- Coastal erosion processes
- Historical changes in the coastline
- Geophysical studies, sedimentary processes, evolution, and characterization of continental margins
- Geomorphology, sedimentology and geochemistry of coastal and marine areas
- Marine geohabitats
- Tectonics, neotectonics, and seismotectonics of marine areas
- Paleoceanography and paleoclimatology
- Study of natural hazards in coastal and marine areas
- Application of GIS (Geographical Information System) techniques to the study of the marine environment
The research conducted has significantly contributed to understanding the marine environment from various perspectives. This includes contributing to coastal area management, identifying the main natural hazards (both internal and external) that can affect coastal populations, and deepening knowledge of the seafloor to justify its conservation.
A prominent example is the contribution of the group’s researchers to the declaration of the first submerged area in Andalusia as a Site of Community Importance (SCI): ESZZ16002 – Mud Volcanoes of the Gulf of Cadiz.