Abstract
Understanding Quaternary dynamics of delta-coastal plains across multiple glacial-interglacial cycles in the Milankovitch band (~100 kyrs) is crucial to achieve a robust evaluation of possible environmental response to future climate-change scenarios. In this work, we document the long-term bio-sedimentary record of core 204 S16 (~205 m long), which covers a wide portion of the post-MPR (Mid-Pleistocene Revolution) interval, taking advantage of the highly subsiding context of the SE Po Plain (NE Italy). Detailed facies characterization through an integrated sedimentological and meiofauna (benthic foraminifers and ostracods) approach allowed for the identification of a repetitive pattern of alluvial deposits alternating with four fossiliferous, paralic to shallow-marine units (Units 1–4). The transgressive surfaces identified at the base of these units mark major flooding events, forced by Holocene (Unit 4), Late Pleistocene (Unit 3) and Middle Pleistocene (Units 1, 2) interglacials. Distinct stratigraphic patterns typify the Middle Pleistocene interval, which includes coastal-marine (tidal inlet and bay) deposits. In contrast, lagoonal sediments record the maximum marine influence in the Late Pleistocene-Holocene succession. As a whole, the meiofauna tracks a regressive trend, with the deepest conditions recorded by the oldest Unit 1 (MIS 9/11 age?).
Highlights
Published: 23 September 2021Deltas and coastal plains are complex depositional systems that include a variety of mutually linked environments
S16,S16, ninenine major faciesfacies associations were were identified through the integration of sedimentological features, meiofauna content identified through the integration of sedimentological features, meiofauna content and geotechnical (PP)(PP)
The vertical stacking pattern of facies associations recorded along core 204 S16, ~205 m long, coupled with stratigraphic trends in meiofauna palaeocommunities, provide new insights about the Middle Pleistocene-Holocene evolution dynamics of the rapidly subsiding
Summary
Deltas and coastal plains are complex depositional systems that include a variety of mutually linked environments These regions are sensitive to regional controls, including climate and relative sea level (RSL) conditions, and to local factors, such as river dynamics, subsidence rates, inherited morphologies and human activities. All these processes operate over a wide range of time scales [1,2,3,4,5]. An improved comprehension of the depositionalenvironmental responses to external factors through time and space is key to produce reliable projections and conservation-restoration strategies [18] In this scenario, only the geological perspective can furnish a long-term view on coastal and fluvial dynamics and associated forcings. Many stratigraphic-based, multiproxy studies on the Quaternary sedimentary successions of the Mediterranean plains have documented the essential role of Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations
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