Dynamics and sedimentary assessment of a rock-bounded estuary: a case study—Tina Mayor (NW Spain, Iberian Peninsula)

Abstract Based on a comprehensive study of the Tina Mayor estuary, conceptual morphosedimentary model is proposed for one best-preserved limestone sectors Iberian Peninsula. This mesotidal and rock-bounded estuary consists significant proportion quartzitic gravel fractions, which distinctive compared to other nearby estuaries Northwest Spain Fluvial discharges allow high coarse fraction inputs be distributed all geomorphological estuarine zones, particularly mouth, bay inner areas. Moreover, narrowing rocky boundary affects outermost sector mouth developing two grain spits; being much more extensive, while tidal flats occupy greater reclaimed area than natural ones. The dominant sedimentary flow regime was established based current records during cycle. flood currents crossing change trajectory at as result from western eastern side in reverse response Coriolis effect. Estuarine units are mapped, including large minor bedforms each zone. These have been characterised according average values granulometric parameters (coarsest 1-percentile size or centile, mean size, sorting, skewness kurtosis), well carbonate (bioclast) percentage, trend maps sorting biogenic content. Furthermore, taking into account amplitude mixing waters (QF/QT), suitable classification can any type characteristics confinement mouth.