Large‐scale patterns of dune type,spacing and orientation in the Australian continental dunefield |
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| Authors: | R J Wasson K Fitchett B Mackey R Hyde |
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| Institution: | 1. Division of Water Resources Research , Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation , GPO Box 1666, Canberra , ACT 2601 , Australia;2. Department of Biogeography and Geomorphology , Australian National University , GPO Box 1, Canberra , ACT 2601 , Australia;3. Centre for Resource and Environmental Studies , Australian National University , GPO Box 1, Canberra , ACT 2601 , Australia;4. School of Earth Sciences , Macquarie University , NSW 2109 , Australia |
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| Abstract: | As a contribution to understanding the morphogenesis of the Australian continental dunefield, maps are presented of the main types of dunes, their orientation and mean spacing using the best available sources of data. Major features on previous maps of the Australian dunefield are verified and new information has been obtained. The anticlockwise whorl of dunes has been found to close on both its eastern and western ends. Dunes extend as far north as 16°S and over large parts of the far south‐west of Western Australia. Distributions of dune types are related to former vegetation cover, climate, supply of sand and directional variability of formative winds. Previously documented relationships between dune spacing, height, equivalent sand thickness (EST) and the texture of surfaces over which sand is transported are used to partially explain the map of mean dune spacings. The spatial distribution of EST, and mineralogic and sedimentologic evidence show that aeolian sediment in the Australian dunefield has travelled only short distances. |
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