Evolución costera de la desembocadura del Guadalquivir en los últimos 6000 años (SW de España)

Abstract

Since the last Holocene sea level rise, about 6,900 yr BP, a series of depositional littoral landforms has been generated at the outlet of the Guadalquivir river, with progradation along the predominant longshore drift (towards the east). The littoral spit systems mapped constitute fur progradation phases. The first is dated between the Flandrian maximum (6,900 yr BP) and 4,500 yr BP; the second between 4,200-3,900 yr BP and 2,700-2,600 yr BP; the third between 2,300 yr BP and 1,100 yr BP; and the fourth between 1,000 yr BP and the present. There were separations of successive erosional phases between 4,500-4,200 yr BP, 2,600-2,300 yr BP and, 1,100-1,000 yr BP. Thus, cycles of higher sedimentation are established, with a slight fall and then stability of sea level. Littoral barrier constructions dominate, with the genesis of extensive tidal flats that decrease the size of the estuaries. These sedimentary phases are interrupted by rapid rises in sea level lasting from 100 to 300 years, when the previously constructed littoral barriers are eroded. The cliffs retreat, causing migration inland of dunar constructions, with frequent overlapping layers. Marine influence within the estuaries in creases.