Coastal sand dune and its importance in near shore marine ecosystem

Abstract

The coastal region along with sandy dunes, have been used by man for different activities. The dunes have been utilized without understanding the dangerous effects, their disappearance can cause to the surrounding environment. Indiscriminate cutting of coastal vegetation and over–exploitation of beach sand for developmental works have resulted in erosion of vast coastal area. Sand dunes are very important systems which require careful planning and management.