Abstract
In the present paper the morphodynamics of sand waves in the Messina Strait, Italy, is analysed by comparing data gathered during two different surveys carried out in 1991 and 2001, respectively. In particular, a morphometric analysis on the most recent data and a qualitative analysis of the differences between bottom bedform patterns, are carried out. At locations characterised by greater depths, only minor changes to the planimetric configuration of the field, i.e. crest orientation (which is seen to be orthogonal to the direction of net gross sand transport) and wave length are observed, while differences in wave length and crest direction are more evident in more shallow areas. On the other hand, wave height has significantly increased in the whole field. A possible explanation of such a change, based on the previsions of a theory which relates sand-wave growth and migration to the main components of the tidal ellipse, is provided.
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Acknowledgements.
The present work has been carried out in the framework of the 5RTD Programme (European Commission Research Directorate-General, contract no. EVK3-CT-2001-00056, SANDPIT). The Italian Minister for Research (project Cofin Idrodinamica e Morfodinamica di ambienti a marea) is also acknowledged. G. Cozzo and E. Foti are gratefully acknowledged for many helpful discussions about the work.
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Santoro, V., Amore, E., Cavallaro, L. et al. Evolution of sand waves in the Messina Strait, Italy. Ocean Dynamics 54, 392–398 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10236-003-0087-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10236-003-0087-y