Beach erosion and its influence on water ecosystems

The response of society to beach erosion and retreat behind the coastline largely involves construction interventions which imply the construction of protective structures on the beaches. These structures change natural hydrodynamic system of waves and sea currents, affecting the transport of sand which, in turn, controls the dynamics of erosion / increase of beaches (Miles et al., 2001; Hsu et al., 2007). The impact of coastal walls and other protective structures on the coast can cause significant changes in habitats with accompanying environmental impacts difficult to detect in the short term (Jaramillo et al., 2002). The setting up of protective structures narrows eroded beaches and their reduced habitats can directly decrease the diversity and abundance of biota.