ABSTRACT Coastal embryonic dunes (habitat 2110) are highly dynamic ecosystems strongly affected by human trampling, which can alter vegetation structure, species composition, and successional trajectories. We investigated plant assemblages located along a gradient of progressive reduction in trampling disturbance in three coastal embryonic shifting dunes (EU habitat code: 2110; central Italy): from intensely trampled dunes (TD), to ‘lockdown’ dunes’, where trampling was interrupted by the 2020–2021 Covid lockdown (LD), to restored dunes where trampling was interrupted in 2017 (RD). We observed a progressive increase in plant species richness, diversity, evenness, and total cover along the gradient. The increase in plant cover was due to a set of dominant and active colonizer species, increasing specific cover and frequencies (Thinopyrum junceum, Xanthium italicum, Anthemis maritima, Sporobolus pungens). Interestingly, species richness increased while diversity and evenness decreased in intermediate disturbance conditions (LD), when allochthonous species and native colonizers co-occurred. Covid lockdown acted as a process stimulating passive restoration in embryonic dunes.

Multi-annual evolution of coastal dunes: Transition from fixed to transgressive dunes state

Spatiotemporal sediment dynamics and vegetation recovery of a Mediterranean coastal dune system following an extreme event

Spinifex sericeus (beach spinifex) is a perennial, dioecious grass native to coastal ecosystem of Oceania that has an important role in dune stability. We present a near telomere-to-telomere, haplotype-resolved nuclear genome and complete organelle genomes of S. sericeus. The nuclear genome is highly repeat-rich, dominated by long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons. Comparative analysis of the two haplotypes reveals extensive structural variation and high levels of duplication that are suggestive of active and expanding LTRs that may drive genome evolution and expansion in this species. The chloroplast genome exhibits heteroplasmy, having two distinct circular configurations spanning 138 kbp each. The complex mitochondrial genome consists of a large linear component spanning 1.85 Mbp and a small circular 134 kbp component. These genomic resources provide a foundation for advancing research on sex determination and stress adaptation in grasses, and well as practical applications in crop improvement and genetically informed coastal dune restoration.

Abstract The full extent of the ecological threat posed by non-native invasive leguminous N-fixing trees to Italian ecosystems has not been thoroughly documented at the national level. This study, conducted by the Working Group on Alien Species of the Italian Botanical Society, aims to develop a comprehensive dataset that provides information on invaded and non-invaded areas, supporting multi-scale ecological analyses on the impact of black locust ( Robinia pseudoacacia ) and different Acacia sensu lato species across Italy. We conducted paired vegetation surveys across 18 distinct invasion contexts, comparing invaded and non-invaded plant communities. These invasion contexts were selected opportunistically by the participating research groups, based on the availability of well-documented sites where the focal species were already established and exerting ecologically relevant effects. Overall, we conducted 342 vegetation surveys across 10 Italian administrative regions and identified 824 plant species. Our surveys highlighted areas affected by five invasive species, including A. dealbata, A. mearnsii, A. saligna , Vachellia karroo , and R. pseudoacacia . Most of the surveys focused on areas invaded by A. saligna . The plant formations investigated fall under 23 EUNIS habitat codes and 10 Natura 2000 habitats. The most frequently occurring vegetation types under the EUNIS code are temperate and Mediterranean-montane scrub, and the most frequently investigated habitat is priority habitat 2250*: Coastal dunes with Juniperus sp. pl. This dataset provides a robust baseline that can facilitate more detailed assessments of the impacts of these invasive species on native ecosystems.

Aims: Qualitative field survey was carried out to record flowering plant wealth of sand dunes and coastal areas of Tirunelveli district, one of the southern districts of Tamil Nadu, a part of peninsular India. Study Design: Qualitative field survey. Place and Duration of Study: Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu; One year. Methodology: Qualitative field surveys were conducted to document flowering plant species occurring within approximately 100 m of the shoreline across coastal and sand dune habitats of Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. The survey was carried out over a one-year period from April 2024 to March 2025. The study encompassed a 48.9 km stretch of coastline extending from Kootapuli to Thoppuvilai. Systematic field surveys were undertaken on foot along the coastal belt. Most plant species were identified on the site and recorded through detailed field notes. All identifications were further verified and authenticated by the research supervisor. Results: A total of 253 plant species representing 182 genera and 61 families were recorded from the study area. Among these, Fabaceae was the most dominant family with 44 species, followed by Malvaceae (17 species), Acanthaceae and Euphorbiaceae (15 species each), Amaranthaceae, Convolvulaceae and Lamiaceae (12 species each), and Poaceae (10 species). Apocynaceae, Asteraceae and Phyllanthaceae were represented by eight species each, Portulacaceae and Rubiaceae by six species each, and Solanaceae by four species. In addition, nine families were represented by three species each, 11 families by two species each, and 27 families by a single species each. Herbs constituted the dominant life form with 108 species, followed by shrubs comprising 57 species that provide diverse microhabitats for dune-associated organisms. Trees were represented by 44 species and occurred in comparatively lower numbers, likely reflecting the combined effects of harsh environmental conditions, limited adaptive capacity, and anthropogenic pressures. Climbers accounted for 25 species and rely on structural support from surrounding vegetation, whereas creepers, represented by 19 species, contribute significantly to sand stabilization and surface binding. Conclusion: The coastal sand dune ecosystem of Tirunelveli District supports relatively high floristic diversity, comprising 253 plant species across 182 genera and 61 families, including nine endemic taxa and several species of conservation concern. The dominance of herbaceous life forms and the substantial presence of invasive alien species reflect both strong adaptive strategies and increasing ecological stress within this fragile system.

Background: Juniperus macrocarpa Sm. is a key shrub species of the Mediterranean coastal dune systems. The species, considered vulnerable, often shows fragmented or declining populations due to coastal erosion and human pressure. However, along a protected stretch of the northern Tuscany coast it displays an opposite trend, with an apparent expansion of the species. Methods: To assess recent population dynamics, we compared high-resolution aerial imagery from 2013 with UAV orthophotos from 2023 across two dune systems of the Migliarino-San Rossore-Massaciuccoli Regional Park (Italy). The dune profile was divided into three belts (B1: shifting dune; B2: consolidated grassland dune; B3: consolidated juniper dune). A total of 368 plots (10 × 10 m) were analyzed to quantify temporal changes in individual abundance and vegetation cover. Results: Over the ten-year period, total abundance increased from 99 to 342 individuals (+245%) at Lecciona and from 117 to 324 individuals (+177%) at Marina di Vecchiano. Mean cover per plot increased significantly at both sites (overall p < 0.001), with the strongest proportional increases recorded in the seaward belts (B1: up to +1220% in abundance and +4500% in cover) revealing a clear shift from an inner-dune concentration in 2013 to a more homogeneous spatial distribution across the entire dune system in 2023. Conclusions: Under conditions of low anthropogenic disturbance, shoreline stability, or geomorphological progradation, J. macrocarpa is able to expand well beyond its recognized ecological niche. These findings demonstrate the central role of geomorphological and disturbance regimes in driving coastal dune vegetation dynamics and highlight the need for adaptive, site-specific management strategies for the long-term conservation of priority habitat 2250/EUNIS N1B.

Abstract Blowouts are geomorphic features formed through the interplay of aeolian processes, vegetation cover and anthropogenic disturbance. Although the basic dynamics of airflow over blowouts under unidirectional winds are relatively well understood, fine‐scale airflow patterns under bi‐directional wind regimes remain poorly characterised. This study investigates airflow dynamics within a small trough blowout located in the coastal dune system of Canet‐en‐Roussillon (SE France), where foot traffic has modified the original morphology. Wind data were collected using 26 anemometers deployed across and within the blowout, capturing spatial and vertical variations during both offshore and onshore wind events. The blowout exhibits a bifurcated morphology that alters airflow asymmetrically: offshore winds are steered oblique to the shoreline and sustain acceleration along the main axis (pattern [c]), whereas onshore winds generate more parallel flow, resulting in deceleration and turbulence (pattern [a]). This contrast gives rise to distinct internal flow structures, flow bifurcation under offshore winds and widespread near‐surface disturbance under onshore winds. A shallow, disturbed near‐surface flow develops within the blowout, constrained vertically by blowout dimensions, and decoupled from the more coherent higher and above‐blowout flows aligned with the incident wind. Peak velocities for both wind directions are observed in the constricted throat region (pattern [b]), though classic jet flow does not develop, likely due to bifurcation and throat morphological constraints. These findings highlight the sensitive coupling between blowout morphology, wind regime and anthropogenic alteration in shaping airflow behaviour within a small trough blowout.

Abstract This study presents the first high‐resolution spatial and temporal analysis of wind flow, sediment transport and topographic evolution under simultaneous storm conditions across two morphologically contrasting beach‐dune systems, characterized by a gently sloping dune face (11°) and a steep, scarped dune face (36°). Results demonstrate that the dune slope strongly controls near‐surface wind acceleration, the development of secondary airflow structures (amplitude, spatial positions), and the continuity of sediment transport pathways. Over the gentle slope, airflow accelerates progressively up the stoss face, promoting sustained, landward‐directed sediment fluxes across the entire beach–dune system and enabling efficient sediment recycling. In this configuration, beach‐derived contributions account for only 12%–15% of the total sediment flux. In contrast, the steep scarp induces flow deceleration and separation at the dune toe, limiting sediment transfer from the beach and favoring seaward‐directed transport associated with secondary vortices at the crest. These contrasting airflow organizations result in fundamentally different storm responses. The gently sloping dune undergoes landward translation with minimal net volume change, whereas the scarped dune experiences dominant marine erosion, leading to a 4 m retreat of the dune front and a sediment loss of ∼30 m 3 m −1 . A new conceptual model of storm‐driven airflow over contrasting dune morphologies is proposed, illustrating how inherited dune slope governs airflow structure and circulation patterns. Overall, these results identify inherited dune morphology as a primary control on airflow organization, sediment pathways, and dune resilience during extreme events.

Organic carbon stock between different grain sizes in Arenosols from the coastal dunes of Campeche Bay, Mexico

Editorial: Advances in coastal dunes

Coastal dunes are highly vulnerable ecosystems that require adequate bioindicators for effective biodiversity monitoring. Although moths are recognized as good bioindicators in many contexts, their diversity patterns in these habitats remain understudied. This research examines the taxonomic and functional diversity of noctuoid moths in a well-preserved, protected dune system in Central Italy (Adriatic coast). Specifically, the study aimed at investigating how vegetation composition, and hence dune zonation, influences noctuoid diversity and traits. Moth sampling was carried out on an annual basis using UV LED traps in both shifting and fixed dune zones. Vegetation surveys were conducted in spring using 4 m × 4 m plots. We compared noctuoid species richness, species abundance distribution patterns, and trait attributes between the two dune zones in relation to vegetation characteristics. We also evaluated the congruence in species composition and abundance between dune zones for both moths and plants. Sampled noctuoids included 98 species (78 Noctuidae, 18 Erebidae, 1 Nolidae, and 1 Notodontidae). The presence of habitat-exclusive species underscores the influence of both abiotic and biotic filtering processes in shaping noctuoid assemblages across the seashore-inland zonation. Trait-based analyses and diversity patterns showed clear ecological links between noctuoid assemblages and dune zones. This congruence supports the use of noctuoid moths as effective bioindicators and stresses the need to conserve the entire dune system as an integrated ecological unit.

Gaps in our understanding of the interplay between biotic and abiotic forces shaping coastal dunes inhibit our ability to fully understand their evolution and predict topographic changes. The theoretical evolution of a dune system begins with nebkha formation. This formation begins around individual dune-building plants, which grow over time around groups of plants. Individual nebkha mounds can meld into one another, growing in size and complexity based on the dune-building vegetation population. To better understand ecogeomorphological feedbacks driving these relationships, we tested how plant density impacts nebkha formation by Ammophila breviligulata in both a laboratory and a field setting. Laboratory tests consisted of using a wind tunnel to control abiotic forces, focusing on the effects of varying plant density in nebkha formation. We tested three low densities commonly supporting backshore nebkha: an individual (one plant) and small groups (five and nine plants). In the field, we used both remote sensing and field techniques to quantify the relationship between stem density and the nebkha shape and size of backshore A. breviligulata nebkha. In the wind tunnel, stem density was not as strong a predictor of nebkha size or shape as number of leaves and aboveground biomass, both of which increased with growing stem and plant densities. Stem density was a strong predictor of nebkha size and shape, with increasing variability at increasing densities in both the laboratory and field. In situ measurements of stem density are performed inconsistently among field experiments due to the effort required. Therefore, strong allometric scaling among A. breviligulata morphology metrics can help overcome limitations around what can be collected in the field or in a modeled environment containing limited plant metrics. In situ , vegetation stabilization frequently allowed the nebkha to grow steeper than would be expected based on grain size and the angle of repose. These differences in field and laboratory nebkha highlight the importance of grounding laboratory work in field collections for the interpretation of their results in nature. Understanding the underlying ecogeomorphic feedbacks involved in nebkha formation is critical to scaling up modeling efforts to forecast coastal foredune evolution, recovery, and storm response in the face of climate change.

Coastal environments are fragile ecosystems threatened by various factors, both natural and anthropogenic. The preservation and protection of these environments, and in particular, the sand dune systems, which contribute significantly to the defense of the inland from flooding, require continuous monitoring. To this end, high-resolution and high-precision multitemporal data acquired with various techniques can be used, such as, among other things, the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) using the network real-time kinematic (NRTK) approach to acquire 3D points, UAS-based structure-from-motion photogrammetry (SfM), terrestrial laser scanning (TLS), and handheld mobile laser scanning (HMLS)-based light detection and ranging (LiDAR). These techniques were used in this work for the 3D survey of a portion of vegetated sand dunes in the Caleri area (Po River Delta, northern Italy) to assess their applicability in complex environments such as coastal vegetated dune systems. Aerial-based and ground-based acquisitions allowed us to produce point clouds, georeferenced using common ground control points (GCPs), measured both with the GNSS NRTK method and the total station technique. The 3D data were compared to each other to evaluate the accuracy and performance of the different techniques. The results provided good agreement between the different point clouds, as the standard deviations of the differences were lower than 9.3 cm. The GNSS NRTK technique, used with the kinematic approach, allowed for the acquisition of the bare-ground surface but at a cost of lower resolution. On the other hand, the HMLS represented the poorest ability in the penetration of vegetation, providing 3D points with the highest elevation value. UAS-based and TLS-based point clouds provided similar average values, with significant differences only in dense vegetation caused by a very different platform of acquisition and point of view.

HighlightsWhat are the main findings?An integrated UAV-LiDAR sensor system with GNSS-RT and optimized ground control point (GCP) design enables centimeter-level digital elevation models (DEMs) from LiDAR point clouds, which are validated against GNSS reference data.Subtle dune dynamics, including elevation changes of up to 0.4 m associated with wind-driven sand transport, were detected.What are the implications of the main findings?This study demonstrates UAV-LiDAR as a robust environmental sensing framework for coastal dune conservation and hazard assessment.Coastal sand dunes, shaped by aeolian and marine processes, are critical to natural ecosystems and human societies, making their morphological monitoring essential for effective conservation. However, large-scale, high-precision monitoring of topographic change remains a persistent challenge, a challenge that advanced sensing technologies can address. In this study, we propose an integrated, sensor-based approach using a UAV-mounted light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system, combined with a GNSS-RTK positioning unit and a novel ground control point (GCP) design to acquire high-resolution topographic data. Field surveys were conducted at four time points between October 2022 and February 2023 in the Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan. The digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from LiDAR point clouds achieved centimeter-level accuracy, enabling reliable detection of subtle topographic changes. Analysis of DEM differencing revealed that wind-driven sand deposition and erosion resulted in elevation changes of up to 0.4 m. These results validate the efficacy of the UAV-LiDAR sensor system for high-resolution, multitemporal monitoring of coastal sand dunes, highlighting its potential to advance the development of environmental sensing frameworks and support data-driven conservation strategies.

ABSTRACT Understanding age‐specific selective pressures is fundamental to species persistence. We investigated the spatiotemporal abundance patterns of adult and juvenile Liolaemus wiegmannii in fragmented and non‐fragmented coastal dunes over four seasons. Our study revealed that adult abundance decreased significantly at fragmented sites during only one season, suggesting susceptibility to environmental stressors exacerbated by a regional drought. In contrast, juvenile abundance showed no significant spatiotemporal differences. An ontogenetic divergence was evident in the findings. Adult abundance was largely unaffected by landscape metrics, whereas juvenile abundance was positively associated with fine‐scale (100 m radius) semi‐fixed dune patch number, aggregation and shape complexity. Furthermore, adults showed a negative association with mean daily air temperature, likely reflecting behavioural thermoregulation or post‐reproductive mortality. Conversely, juvenile abundance was positively associated with net primary productivity. The ecological flexibility of this generalist lizard is not uniform across all life stages. Juveniles are particularly sensitive to fine‐scale habitat structure and resource availability, revealing hidden vulnerabilities in a species often assumed to be tolerant. This ontogenetic divergence suggests that an apparent lack of population‐level fragmentation effects can mask critical age‐specific vulnerabilities, which is a crucial consideration for conservation.

Long-term vegetation dynamics and management challenges in coastal dunes: Insights from a resurvey of two Mediterranean sites in Italy

Ecological and human-induced factors driving the invasion of Neurada procumbens in a protected coastal dune ecosystem: insights from chorological analysis within an environmental management framework.

Geochemical interactions during infiltration of monovalent-partial desalinated water into different coastal dune soils

Dynamics of engineered coastal dune landscapes at the Zandmotor