Stratigraphy of Tide-Dominated Estuaries

Bernadette Tessier (1)

1 M2C - Morphodynamique Continentale et Côtière

Tide-dominated estuaries have received less attention than wave-dominated estuaries due mainly to the fact that they are less common coastal systems. Consequently, the data available on the sedimentary infi ll of tide-dominated estuaries are limited. The present chapter describes several modern (Holocene) examples for which seismic, sediment core and 14C age data are available, allowing reconstruction of sediment fi lls. Some ancient examples are also given. The distribution and preservation of some key features such as systems tracts and ravinement surfaces are discussed in light of the different examples, as well as the controlling factors of infi lling. Only a few features and factors can fi nally be assigned specifi cally to tide-dominated estuary infi lls. However, two points must be emphasized: (1) wave-built bodies are common features preserved within tidedominated estuary infi lls; and (2) the potential for preservation of estuarine sedimentary bodies is primarily controlled by tidal accommodation, defi ned by the depth of the main tidal channel belt.

Domaines: Interfaces continentales, environnement; Milieux et Changements globaux

Bernadette Tessier. Stratigraphy of Tide-Dominated Estuaries. spirnger, pp.119, 2012, ⟨10.1007/978-94-007-0123-6_6⟩. ⟨hal-00825175⟩