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How are micro-tidal, meso-tidal, and macro-tidal coasts classified by tidal range?

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Coasts are classified into three categories based on their tidal range, which refers to the magnitude of the daily or semi-daily change in sea level. This classification system is defined as follows:

  • Micro-tidal: Coasts with a tidal range of less than two metres. These constitute the largest percentage of the world's coasts.1
  • Meso-tidal: Coasts with a tidal range between two and four metres.1
  • Macro-tidal: Coasts with a tidal range of more than four metres.1

While tidal range is a primary factor in these classifications, the actual impact of tides on coastal landforms also depends on local topography. For instance, a steep cliff may show minimal shoreline change even in a macro-tidal environment, whereas a broad, gently sloping tidal flat can experience significant shoreline shifts during a single tidal cycle.1