Almería (Classic Geology in Europe 12). Adrian Harvey & Anne E. Mather., Dunedin Academic Press, 2015, ISBN 9781780460376
Abstract
Dunedin Academic Press has recently published a book onAlmeriaauthored by Adrian Harvey and Anne Mather within the Classic Geology inEuropeseries. It is a highly attractive and educational work, including more than 100 colour figures, many of which correspond to superb maps. Both the texts and the illustrations reflect the deep knowledge of the authors on the geology and geomorphology of the area, as well as their extensive experience as field researchers and lecturers. Adrian Harvey is Emeritus Professor of Geomorphology in theUniversityofLiverpooland life membership of the Spanish Society of Geomorphology. He is a key author in the field of fluvial and alluvial geomorphology, covering virtually all the spatial and temporal scales. His extensive field research has been largely conducted in Almería, in addition to many other regions worldwide. Moreover, he has developed an enormous service as Editor-in-Chief of Geomorphology (1993-2005), and as editor of the special issues of the journal since 2005. Anne Mather, Associate Professor (Reader) of Physical Geography in theUniversityofPlymouth, carried out her PhD on fluvial sedimentology and geomorphology in the Neogene basins ofAlmeriaunder the supervision of Adrian Harvey. Throughout her prolific career she has conducted research on a broad range of topics such as tectonic geomorphology, fluvial and alluvial systems or landslides, chiefly in drylands of various continents. Both authors are still conducting fructiferous research in Almería region where they have supervised about five Ph.D. Theses.
Almeria, in the Eastern Betic Cordillera, southern Spain, is a privilege region for studying, teaching and enjoying geology and geomorphology. It has one of the most arid climates inEuropeand is dominated by a Basin-and-Range topography related to the ongoing collision between the Eurasian and African tectonic plates. The present landscape is largely controlled by the interrelationships between climate and tectonics in one of the most active areas of the Betic Cordillera. The ranges mainly consist of Palaeozoic metamorphic rocks of the Inner Betics, and locally recent volcanic rocks. The active strike-slip and normal seismogenic faults that control the basin margins provide magnificent examples of tectonic geomorphology. The depressions correspond to Neogene basins with superb exposures of marine and continental successions that record a wide variety of sedimentary environments. The Messinian evaporites ofSorbasBasindisplay an outstanding gypsum karst of great scientific and educational value. The basins, affected by tectonic inversion and fluvial captures, have experienced a progressive change in their morpho-sedimentary behaviour, from sediment aggradation to fluvial incision. In some sectors the ancient Neogene basins are deeply incised, displaying excellent examples of fluvial terraces, torrential braided channels (ramblas or wadis) and impressive badland landscapes. Book examples of alluvial fans associated with fault-controlled mountain fronts occur in the associated piedmonts. The coastal landscapes in the area offers the possibility to examine active beaches and cliffs, as well as Late Pleistocene raised beaches that record sea-level changes and vertical tectonic uplift.
The book comprises two main parts. The first one introduces through five chapters the main geological and geomorphological features of Almería. The second part is conceived as a practical field-guide, including seven field-trips throughout the different geological units of the area. The reader will find clear indications about the routes, field-descriptions accompanied by excellent illustrations, and GPS coordinates to ensure the location of the key points and outcrops. The appendices and the glossary are of great help for a comprehensive understanding of the book contents, and provide useful information for the preparation of the field-trips. The book is accessible for a great public, from researchers to people keen of nature and “geotourism”. We believe it is an excellent educational resource for lecturers and students of Geology, Physical Geography and Environmental Sciences. This publication constitutes a big temptation to travel to Almeria, enjoy its impressive landscapes and learn from the expertise of our colleagues Adrian and Anne.
