Beachrock Reconsidered. Discussion of: Kelletat, D., 2006. Beachrock as Sea-Level Indicator? Remarks from a Geomorphological Point of View. Journal of Coastal Research, 22(6), 1558–1564. Available to Purchase

The presence of beachrock (coarse-grained beach sediment that has been cemented and thus preserved in the geological record) is a neglected component of coastal environments; thus, Kelletat's (2006) recent report is a timely reminder of its significance, particularly on warm, microtidal coasts (e.g., Caldas et al., 2006; Holail et al., 2004; Ramkumar et al., 2000). Nevertheless, the report is disappointing because it fails to sufficiently answer its original question (is beach-rock a sea-level [SL] indicator?), and does not take a considered view of (1) the age; and (2) cementation style and processes associated with beachrock formation. Kelletat's report is particularly disappointing because it does not refer to any of the recent and apposite literature in which these two components are extensively discussed. This comment paper aims to provide further clarity on these points using a specific example from the Mediterranean coast of...