Soil bioengineering techniques for Mediterranean coastal dune restoration using autochthonous vegetation species

Abstract Coastal dunes are extremely fragile and threatened ecotones, which play a key environmental role in terms of functional connection between terrestrial marine ecosystems. To counteract the hydrogeological vulnerability coastal risk areas, reliance can be made on soil bioengineering techniques, consisting planting native species combination with natural inert materials. These interventions involve use typical Mediterranean plant species, fundamental for increasing surface protection as well their ecologic function dune consolidation. Monitoring studies growth parameters useful to assess suitability different used works. Hence, this study aimed (i) identify some herbaceous shrubby interventions, (ii) evaluate propagation methods short-term parameters, (iii) provide insights into field management strategies before after transplanting. Juniperus phoenicea L., macrocarpa Sm., Pistacia lentiscus Tamarix africana Poir. gallica L. were selected shrubs while Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link, Sporobolus pungens (Schreb.) Kunth., Agropyron junceum P. Beauv., Eryngium maritimum Calystegia soldanella R. Br., Pancratium species. As shrubs, seeds cuttings proved best an efficiency up 90%. Agamic methods, other hand, most efficient (80–90%) After transplantation, all showed adaptation period new climatic edaphic conditions. In particular, was found withered presence radical shoots.