Morphology, genesis and evolution of rockpools along Italian coasts

Observation of thirteen morphotypes of rockpool falling into five different categories and some forms with intermediate features allowed a genetic-morphological classification to be proposed. The surveyed rockpools may be found in any resistant substrate, in both emerged and submerged environments, and show a general evolutionary trend towards spindle-shaped geometries. Frequent phenomena of piracy, producing rejuvenated forms and/or large, complex rockpools are observed in different morphotypes. Bio-erosion, bio-constructor micro-organism action, salt precipitation, marine and meteoric waters physico-chemical erosion, mechanical erosion by waves, climatic conditions, and rocky substrate characteristics greatly influence the development of rockpools. In addition to currently evolving forms, fossil forms may also be observed on Pleistocene marine terraces, both emerged or submerged, sometimes remodelled or infilled by sediments.