Ecogeomorphic response of a coastal dune in southern Portugal regulated by extrinsic factors

• Plant community zonation and geomorphology changed along a coastal dune segment. Variation of biogeomorphic variables alongshore correlated with shoreline trends. Two distinct ecogeomorphic states have been identified in close proximity. Identified explained by long-term change rates. Sediment retention capacity local vegetation was low due to abiotic factors. Coastal dunes are complex landforms whose morphology results from various interactions between biotic Here, we explore the longshore variability morphological features, plant distribution accumulation patterns segment (1.4 km-long) located at downdrift end sandy peninsula Ria Formosa, Portugal. To understand main drivers observed implications for response, this information combined recent multidecadal evolution data. The integrated document significant differences morphology, sedimentation zonation, two configurations or One (western sector) shows narrower system, cover characterised pioneer species densities, squeezed zonation. Conversely, other (eastern presents wider system new foredune, more developed relatively high density. Both could be partially trends inlet shifts, stable retreating western sector progradation eastern one. suggest that is cycle inland migration, encouraged reduced accommodation space across stoss. Alternatively, observations prograding greater stabilising feedback topography promoted seaward development an incipient foredune. Outcomes support importance feedbacks configuration, but they also evidence role within primarily regulated physical factors ultimately promote inhibit effects on topography.