Morphodynamics of intertidal bars in wave-dominated coastal settings - A review

Intertidal bar systems are ubiquitous features on wave-dominated beaches in coastal settings with a significant (> 1 m) tidal range. Depending primarily on the wave conditions and the tidal range, and to a lesser extent on the nearshore gradient, they can assume a variety of forms. Slip-face bars represent the most pronounced and dynamic intertidal bar morphology, and are generally found on their own around the mean high tide level. They usually form low on the interticlal beach after storm-induced beach erosion and develop into a berm Under prolonged calin wave conditions. Low-amplitude ridges and sand waves represent multiple bar morphologies. The bars occur across the entire interticlal profile and they remain present throughout the year. Multiple intertidal bars tend to be rather subdued and relatively static, especially sand waves, and their origin remains unclear.