Geomorphology and depositional architecture of a strandplain at the ne margin of Quadros Lagoon, RS, Brazil

Abstract

Foredune ridges and beach ridges are morphological elements largely present in coastal lakes and coastal lagoons. However, it still requires further studies. This paper presents results of a prograding strandplain (sand ridge plain) developed at the NE margin of Quadros Lagoon, in the northern littoral of Rio Grande do Sul. Aerial photographs analysis, topographic surveying, GPR records, soundings and surface samples allowed to study the morphology of the strandplain and the stratigraphic framework of their respective sedimentary deposits. The strandplain comprises 20 continuous and semi-continuous ridges, of low amplitude and spaced 5 to 50 m. A regressive sequence comprising deposits of shoreface, backshore/beachface, foredunes and washover fans was developed aggradacionaly and proggradacionaly over a basal facies of a lagoon bottom, between the last 7 to 6 ky. Transgressive dunefields from the Holocene barrier IV (Curumim barrier) to Quadros Lagoon was probably an important source of sand for the strandplain development.