Aeolian-fluvial interactions in dryland environments: examples, concepts and Australia case study

Over the past 10 to 15 years there has been a rising interest in interactions between aeolian and fluvial processes from geomorphologists and sedimentologists. This reflects recognition of the limitations of a reductionist perspective examining single process systems in understanding landform and la...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Progress in physical geography 2003-12, Vol.27 (4), p.471-501
Main Authors: Bullard, Joanna E., McTainsh, Grant H.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
20th century
Arid and mediterranean areas
Bgi / Prodig
Case studies
Climate
Earth sciences
Earth, ocean, space
Exact sciences and technology
Geomorphology
Marine and continental quaternary
Physical geography
Surficial geology
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Summary:Over the past 10 to 15 years there has been a rising interest in interactions between aeolian and fluvial processes from geomorphologists and sedimentologists. This reflects recognition of the limitations of a reductionist perspective examining single process systems in understanding landform and landscape development. This paper focuses on the rise of aeolian-fluvial interaction research in dryland environments. We first explore the background to the contemporary situation then review existing research on aeolian-fluvial interactions at global/regional and local scales. From this review it is suggested that landscape sensitivity, or the effectiveness of links between the process systems, spatial environmental transitions and temporal environmental change are the three main driving forces determining the geomorpho-logical significance of aeolian-fluvial interactions. The importance of the first two of these driving forces is explored in more detail using Australia as a case study. We conclude by highlighting some future possible research directions in this field.
ISSN:0309-1333
1477-0296
DOI:10.1191/0309133303pp386ra