Biogeomorphology revisited: looking towards the future

Abstract

Although biogeomorphological research is well-established, with many studies on a range of two-way interrelations between organisms and geomorphology in different environments, there is little consensus over what constitutes biogeomorphology, why it might be useful and where it is heading. Starting with definitions of core biogeomorphic processes, we consider the need for future biogeomorphological studies to evaluate the crucial links between bioprocesses, biological community dynamics and ‘inorganic’ earth surface processes. Five key applications of biogeomorphological research are identified; the roles of organisms in environmental reconstruction, trace fossil analysis, extraterrestrial geomorphology, environmental engineering and the built environment. Some key research directions and methodological challenges for future biogeomorphological research include expanding the spatial and temporal coverage of datasets, investigating the role of bioprocesses in landform development, tackling scale issues, investigating the relevance of nonlinear dynamical ideas to biogeomorphology and developing better sampling and monitoring techniques for bioprocesses.