Dune cordon
What is a dune chain or dune cord?
Dune chains or dune ridges are natural formations that transcend the simple mountains of sand along the coast; they represent living and valuable ecosystems that act as natural barriers, protecting beaches and inland areas from the pounding of the sea and flooding. Their formation begins when wind-blown sand is deposited around germinating plants or seeds, creating small mounds that, over time, consolidate and expand. In addition, these chains function as sand reservoirs, facilitating the natural regeneration of beaches and maintaining the balance between the sand on the beach and that which is displaced after meteorological events.
These ecosystems are home to a great biodiversity, with flora and fauna adapted to extreme conditions such as freshwater scarcity and high salt concentration. In addition, dune chains play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change, acting as natural buffers against storms and rising sea levels. Thus, they not only define the coastal landscape, but also contribute to environmental conservation and the protection of inland areas.
Canet d'en Berenguer's dune cordon
The dune dune de Canet is a natural jewel that stretches along the coast, from Puerto Siles to the border with the municipality of Sagunt. With an approximate length of 1,200 meters and a width of between 50 and 60 meters, this ecosystem forms a vital barrier for the protection of the beach and the conservation of the coastal landscape.
Biodiversity of the dune cordon
Although the Canet dunes are only a fraction of what they may have been in the past, they still harbor a rich biodiversity. Among the plant species that can be observed in this ecosystem are the barron (Ammophila arenaria) and the lesser burdock (Xanthium italicum) as well as the sea carrot (Echinophora spinosa) and the sand bell (Calystegia soldanella). Its fauna is equally remarkable, with reptiles such as the colilarga lizard (Psammodromus algirus) and a great variety of insects, including the zebra caterpillar (Brithys crini) and several beetles, which find their natural habitat in this ecosystem.
In addition, birds such as gulls and the kentish plover use the dunes as a place to rest, observe and, in the case of the plover, to reproduce. This small brown and white bird goes almost unnoticed in the sand, where it finds protection and camouflage.
The conservation of the Canet d’en Berenguer dunes is essential to preserve its biodiversity and maintain its role as a natural barrier against coastal erosion. This ecosystem not only protects the beaches, but also contributes to the stability of the environment, providing refuge for numerous species. Its protection ensures the continuity of these benefits and helps mitigate the effects of erosion and climate change. Visiting the dune belt offers a unique opportunity to admire the coastal beauty and understand the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems.
Biodiversity of the dune cordon
Although the Canet dunes are only a fraction of what they may have been in the past, they still harbor a rich biodiversity. Among the plant species that can be observed in this ecosystem are the barron (Ammophila arenaria) and the lesser burdock (Xanthium italicum) as well as the sea carrot (Echinophora spinosa) and the sand bell (Calystegia soldanella). Its fauna is equally remarkable, with reptiles such as the colilarga lizard (Psammodromus algirus) and a great variety of insects, including the zebra caterpillar (Brithys crini) and several beetles, which find their natural habitat in this ecosystem.
In addition, birds such as gulls and the kentish plover use the dunes as a place to rest, observe and, in the case of the plover, to reproduce. This small brown and white bird goes almost unnoticed in the sand, where it finds protection and camouflage.
The conservation of the Canet d’en Berenguer dunes is essential to preserve its biodiversity and maintain its role as a natural barrier against coastal erosion. This ecosystem not only protects the beaches, but also contributes to the stability of the environment, providing refuge for numerous species. Its protection ensures the continuity of these benefits and helps mitigate the effects of erosion and climate change. Visiting the dune belt offers a unique opportunity to admire the coastal beauty and understand the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems.