Conveners: Eberhard Schindler, Rainer Brocke, Achim Wehrmann, Volker Wilde
Session language: English

Topic:
The land-sea transition is characterized by specific environments throughout the entire history of the Earth. A number of special ecosystems developed within the transitional zone, such as tidal flats (like those of the North Sea), tropical mangrove systems, large delta systems such as the Indus or the Mississippi, or rocky shores such as those of Brittany. Different processes on each side of the coastline and their manifold interactions play a key role for the development not only of the adjacent ecosystems, but even for distant areas through system interactions. Therefore, the effects of major changes can be traced in both directions far beyond the land–sea transitional area. This becomes especially prominent during times of marked climate and/or sea-level changes (e.g., shifts from icehouse to greenhouse conditions) or important evolutionary steps (e.g., when life colonised terrestrial environments). One of the periods of special interest in relation to land–sea interactions is the mid-Palaeozoic, namely the Devonian. Continental surfaces were progressively invaded by life during this key period and terrestrial environments diversified quickly. Due to coupling effects, numerous consequences on weathering processes and products, soil formation and depositional systems may be seen even in the marine realm.

Due to the complex patterns of interaction, we encourage colleagues from a range of different disciplines to participate. We are seeking contributions spanning the whole Phanerozoic to the present time.