Publications
Sedimentology of a hypertidal point bar (Mont‐Saint‐Michel Bay, north‐western France) revealed by combining lidar time‐series and sedimentary core data
A study of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay reveals that sediment accumulation on hypertidal point bars is more complex and variable than previously thought. The research, combining lidar time-series data with sediment core analysis, found that the thickest deposits and highest mud storage occur at the apex of the point bar due to low-energy conditions, rather than uniformly along its length. This challenges existing facies models by highlighting how depositional patterns alternate between seaward and landward sides, with rhythmic tidal deposits (rhythmites) preserved best in the apex zone. The findings underscore that sediment preservation is influenced not only by elevation relative to tidal range but also by location along the point bar.
Intertidal sedimentary dynamics in Mont-Saint-Michel bay, a study of its natural evolution and man-made modifications
Mont-Saint-Michel Bay exhibits dynamic sedimentary processes shaped by tidal and swell interactions, leading to the migration of coarse bioclastic sands at rates of several dozen meters per year. These sands accumulate on upper tidal flats, forming a relatively stable but non-continuous coastal barrier composed of large shell banks. The eastern part of the bay, an estuarine zone, shows constrained morpho-dynamics due to shifting channels, while sedimentary accretion around Mont-Saint-Michel varies from 0.2 to 10 cm/year, depending on the salt marsh front's context. Salt marshes advance at approximately 17 hectares per year, contributing to the bay's gradual infilling over millennia. Human activities, such as fixed fisheries, shellfish farming, polder formation, and dike construction, have further altered the landscape, with historical reconstructions providing insight into these changes.
High Resolution Shoreline and Shelly Ridge Monitoring over Stormy Winter Events: A Case Study in the Megatidal Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel (France)
A strong correlation was found between significant wave height and erosion rate, ranging from 0 to 60.9 meters, during two high-energy winter events in the megatidal Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel (France). This study highlights how coastal systems respond variably to stormy conditions depending on their geomorphic features. To investigate this, researchers employed a transdisciplinary approach combining in situ wave measurements with pressure sensors, topographical data acquisition using differential GPS, and high-resolution aerial and satellite imagery analysis. The salt marsh vegetation line and the inner margin of shelly ridges served as markers for tracking shoreline evolution during the events from February 18–24, 2015, and March 19–24, 2015. This method provides critical insights into coastal vulnerability, offering a more precise understanding than regional-scale studies.
Wave attenuation and Coastal Protection by Shelly Ridges: Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, France
Shelly ridges in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, France, demonstrate remarkable wave attenuation capabilities, reducing energy by 92% to 98% as waves traverse well-formed systems. This significant dissipation, primarily affecting wind-wave and swell energy while leaving infragravity frequencies dominant, highlights their role in coastal protection. In contrast, degraded or breached ridges show reduced attenuation (70% to 90%), with a mix of gravity and infragravity energy. The study employed monthly topographic surveys using DGPS and hydrodynamic measurements via miniature pressure sensors deployed since February 2015, providing preliminary evidence that shelly ridges mitigate wave impact on shorelines. Further research under stronger wave conditions is needed to solidify these findings.
The conservation status of Sabellaria alveolata (L.) (Polychaeta: Sabellariidae) reefs in the Bay of Mont‐Saint‐Michel
Sabellaria alveolata reefs in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, Europe's most extensive intertidal biogenic structures, have shown significant deterioration since 2001. This decline is attributed to increased oyster farming, silt deposition, and recreational harvesting, which fragment the reef and alter hydrodynamics. The study used a Health Status Index (HI) combining physical and biological parameters to map reef health spatially and temporally, revealing rapid degradation, particularly in central areas. These findings underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies to protect these endangered ecosystems.
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