Title: Multiyear changes of the Danube delta marine edge
Abstract: With the help of field and remote (space) methods, detailed studies of long-term changes of the Danube delta coastline (DCL) were carried out. It was established that the DCL displacements (progradation or retreat) can be an effective indicator of delta formation process as a whole: the dynamics of the delta channel network and the redistribution of water flow and sediment load between the branches, the impact of external factors on the delta (river water flow and sediment load, wind and wave action, rise or drop of the sea level). To determine the causes and characteristics of the Danube DCL changes on seven genetically homogeneous areas the contribution of various factors to the balance of sand sediments forming the DCL was evaluated. Locations of the DCL progradation or retreat were determined. Comparison of the results of a study of the Danube DCL dynamics with the data on changes of morphology and regime of other large deltas may allow one to assess the causes and trends of modern processes in river deltas.