Geological Strata on the Tatsukushi Coast (1)
The coastline around Tatsukushi attracts geologists from around the world, who come to study the otherworldly landscape that was formed 15 to 20 million years ago. A bit of background knowledge will deepen your appreciation of these unusual features.
Tafoni
The tiny depressions on rocks along the Tatsukushi coast are called tafoni. They are caused by a process known as salt weathering, in which saltwater seeps into the rock and dries inside it before eventually crystallizing and causing bits of rock to break off.
Wave ripples
The ground along the shoreline exhibits ripple-like forms that appear to have been created by waves. These “wave ripples,” seen in sand that has hardened into rock, are the result of water and wind battering the landscape millions of years ago.
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See if you can spot the ripples in the ground.
There are two main types of ripples, both formed by the movement of water.