Formation and transformation of Pleistocene periglacial slope deposits in the Spessart Mountains (Hesse, Germany)

Past to present Quaternary landform change : natural and anthropogenic drivers

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
Soil profiles in the Spessart Mountains were analyzed with respect to features elucidating processes forming and transforming Pleistocene periglacial slope deposits (PPSDs). Field and laboratory analyses were complemented by micromorphological investigations to gain more detailed information. The results verify aeolian sedimentation, solifluction and cryoturbation as most important formation processes. Furthermore, several findings suggest the influence of additional genetically active processes. PPSDs provide the parent material for Holocene soil formation. In addition, they experience alteration by bioturbation and anthropogenic influence on relief and soil. Pedogenic transformation is dependent on the PPSDs material composition. Particularly the content of silt-sized allochthonous material controls the efficacy of silicate weathering and depth of soil development. Therefore, the coincidence of pedogenic boundaries and layers often reported in the literature is partly falsified.


Type de document :
Article de monographie

Source :
Zeitschrift für Geomorphologie, issn : 0372-8854, 2014, vol. 58, n°. 3, Suppl., p. 91-113, nombre de pages : 23, Références bibliographiques : 3 p.

Date :
2014

Editeur :
Pays édition : Allemagne, Stuttgart, Gebruder Borntraeger