Synanthropisation of coastal vegetation in southern Spain

Coastal dunes have high ecological value, but are often damaged or overexploited by beach tourism. The main problems for the vegetation of this ecosystem physical destruction and synanthropisation, latter due to colonisation both alien apophyte species, favoured human action. This study analyses degree synanthropisation a stretch coastline in southern Spain, systematically surveying flora present six biotopes: beach, foredune, mid-dune, back-dune, creek rocky area. percentage synanthropic species was 51%, which 33% apophytes, mainly ruderal weeds, 18% mostly from gardens adjacent coastal zone. varies biotope, ranging zero on 63% with marked increase inland. Richness diversity is highest biotopes higher at cost lower naturalness. Measures need be taken protect vegetation, synanthropisation.