Wave cut platform

A wave cut platform refers to the narrow flat area often seen at the base of a sea cliff caused by the action of the waves. Where the coast line itself is changing due to seismic action there may be a series of platforms showing earlier sea levels and giving an indication of the amount of uplift caused by various earthquakes.

Because of the continual wave action a wave cut platform represents an extremely hostile environment and few but the toughest of organisms can utilize such a niche.

The phenomenom is also known as a marine terrace.

See also: Landform, Beach, Raised beach.