The Arcachon basin is characterized by its biological diversity, its changing landscapes and its cultural richness. Here is an explanation of the main components of this ecosystem:

The bay itself

The Arcachon Basin is a lagoon open to the Atlantic Ocean, formed by the meeting between the Landes coast and the Gironde coast. Its crescent shape is protected by the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, which acts as a natural barrier against storms coming from the ocean.

Tides

The Arcachon Basin is subject to significant tides, which strongly influence its ecological dynamics. Two rising tides and two falling tides occur each day, changing the coastal landscape and water level.

The fauna and the flora

The basin is home to exceptional biodiversity, including a variety of marine species, migratory birds and plants adapted to the coastal environment. Concerning the flora: The banks and marshes of the Arcachon Basin are colonized by specific vegetation adapted to saline conditions, such as salicornia, obiones and sea lavender. On the edges of the basin, we find dune formations where Plant species that are resistant to wind and salt grow, such as maroon and arbutus. Pine and oak groves cover the surrounding land, providing habitats for a variety of terrestrial plant and animal species.

Oyster beds

The Arcachon Bay is renowned for its oyster beds, which cover a large part of its surface. Oyster farmers cultivate oysters in developed parks, benefiting from ideal conditions in terms of salinity and water quality. Oyster beds contribute to the preservation of the Arcachon Basin ecosystem by filtering the water and promoting marine biodiversity. Oysters play a crucial role in water purification by filtering suspended particles and improving water quality. The operation of oyster farms is subject to strict regulations to guarantee the sustainability of this activity and the preservation of the environment. Measures are put in place to limit negative impacts on ecosystems and ensure responsible management of resources.

Ports and human activities

Around the basin, several ports host fishing, boating and tourism activities. Traditional fishing, oyster farming and tourism are important elements of the local economy.

The preservation of the environment

Due to its ecological wealth, the Arcachon Basin is subject to particular attention in terms of environmental preservation. Measures are taken to protect fragile ecosystems, fight pollution and preserve water quality.

In summary, the Arcachon Basin is a dynamic and diverse ecosystem, where nature and human activities coexist in harmony, while being subject to environmental preservation challenges.