Coastal Dune Vegetation in Turkey: A Geographical Perspective

Abstract

Dunes are found along all the coasts of Turkey. Coastal dunes are somewhat different habitats than their surroundings. They have certain economical values and lesser known, or unknown, ecological aspects. They are partially rich from a biodiversity's point of view as well. These unique ecosystems are also under pressure due to various anthropogenic factors, mainly from tourism. The negative impact of population on coastal dunes increases over time. Dunes are not only affected by the stress of the closest population but they are also affected by the existence of some populations relatively far away. Before the development of summer tourism, coastal dunes were protected, or not destroyed that much because dunes are restrictive in agricultural production. Today tourism is not only made up of sun, sea and sand. With current trends, dunes are used for various other purposes: accommodation like hotels, hostels, marine resorts, golf resorts, and even car races. Major coastal dunes in north of Turkey are Kizilirmak, Yesilirmak, Sakarya delta, and coastal areas at the northern part of Istanbul. In thesouth of the country, Seyhan, Ceyhan, Goksu delta, Lara-Parakende dunes at lower course of Aksu-Kopr rivers, Patara dunes, Dalaman coastal dunes, and Iztuzu dunes are present. Also, Gediz delta and the dunes at the coast of Saroz bay are in the west. Some of the plants living in those areas are considered to be endangered species in Turkey, European or in a global scale. The use of coastal dunes is regulated by legislation regarding coastal use. This legislation is mostly related to economical aspects. However, the legislation should also include biodiversity and conservation. In this study, vegetation and land use of selected coastal dunes are evaluated and conservation issues are discussed.