Sand dunes

• What is the local case study mentioned for sand dunes?

  East Head Spit
• What is East Head Spit known for?

  It has many sand dunes
• What type of grass is mentioned that stabilizes sand dunes?

  Marram grass
• How does marram grass contribute to sand dune formation?

  It stabilizes the sand with its roots
• What are the stages of sand dune formation?

  1. Embryo dunes form around obstacles
  2. Fore dunes develop and are stabilized by marram grass
  3. Decomposing vegetation increases sand fertility
  4. Dune slacks form in depressions
• What is the first stage of sand dune formation?

  Embryo dunes
• What do embryo dunes require to form?

  Obstacles like rocks or seaweed
• What is the second stage of sand dune formation?

  Fore dunes
• How do fore dunes stabilize?

  By marram grass growth
• What happens to grasses on the dunes over time?

  They decompose and enrich the sand
• What is the third stage of sand dune formation?

  Decomposing vegetation
• What is the final stage of sand dune formation?

  Dune slacks
• How do dune slacks form?

  In depressions from rainfall
• How does the distance to the sea affect sand dune formation?

  It varies from half a mile to meters
• What is the significance of the term "depression" in the context of dune slacks?

  It refers to a dip in the landscape
• What is the relationship between sand dune stages and vegetation?

  Vegetation increases as dunes mature
• What is the importance of sand dune ecosystems?

  They provide habitats for various species
• How does wind contribute to sand dune formation?

  It transports and deposits sand particles
• What is the impact of human activity on sand dunes?

  It can lead to erosion and habitat loss
• What are the differences between various types of dunes?

  They vary in shape, size, and vegetation
• What is the ecological significance of marram grass?

  It stabilizes sand and supports biodiversity
• Where are sand dunes commonly found in the UK?

  Along the coastlines
• How does climate affect sand dune formation?

  It influences vegetation growth and sand movement
• What is the relationship between sand dunes and coastal erosion?

  Sand dunes can protect coastlines from erosion