Tiny beach-dwelling crustaceans are big-time sand movers, shaping the California coast
Marine scientists have discovered that tiny sand hoppers are responsible for moving massive amounts of sediment on California beaches, playing a crucial role in coastal physical processes. These crustaceans contribute to bioturbation at rates comparable to major rivers and coastal currents.
Why it matters
Understanding the biological contribution to sediment transport is essential for accurate coastal management and climate adaptation strategies.
by Sonia Fernandez, University of California - Santa Barbara
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Add as preferred source Megalorchestia corniculata, one of six major species of sand hoppers in California. Credit: T. I. Baxter et al Stand on the damp sand on a California beach and chances are you're standing on top of an active earthworks site. Sand hoppers (Megalorchestia spp.), the tiny, shrimp-like creatures commonly found eating away at kelp on the shore, have been found to move massive amounts of sand, excavating up to 50 kg (110 pounds) of sand per meter (3.3 feet) of shoreline per day.
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