Earth Has 657 More Barrier Islands Than Previously Thought
Posted on April 27, 2011
A new study by researchers from Duke University and Meredith College has revealed that the Earth has 657 more barrier islands than previously thought. The islands were discovered using new satellite imagery and navigational charts. The islands are not new. They have been there for many, many years, but were overlooked in previous surveys. Barrier islands are important because they protect the mainland from storm damage and beach erosion. An image of North Carolina's Outer Banks barrier islands is pictured on the right.
The researchers used satellite imagery combined with topographical maps and navigational charts to identify the barrier islands. They found a total of 2,149 worldwide. This is significantly higher than the 1,492 islands identified in a 2001 survey. The islands measure 20,783 kilometers in total length. They make up 10% of the Earth's continental shorelines. Barrier islands are known for the protection they offer the coast against erosion and storm damage.
Most of the newly discovered islands are the Northern Hemisphere, which is where 75% of the world's barrier islands are located.
The full research paper about the study can be found here in the online Journal of Coastal Research.
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