An Overview of the Research on Channel Evolution in the Yangtze River Mouth Region Since the Last Glacial Maximum

Abstract

Since the Last Glacial Maximum,the riverbed of the Yangtze River mouth region has evolved from the shape of the deep incised-valley to the filling of the palaeo-valley and to the delta development because of the great change of the sea level.The interaction between Sea and Land is the main factor which has affected the evolution of the channel of the Yangtze river mouth region.The research achievements on the channel of the Yangtze river mouth were analyzed.The shape and filling,the riverbed evolution since the transgression Maximum,the sedimentary sequence and sedimentary facies of the ancient valley of the Yangtze river mouth region were focused on.A lot of macroscopical studies and single core studies were made.Macroscopic and microcosmic studies were seldom combined.Few shapes of ancient valley were particularly studied.Great importance should be attached to macroscopic and microcosmic combination. The shape of ancient valley was resumed on the basis of series core section analysis.According to the sedimentary characteristics,the flow velocity and discharge were estimated.The high-resolution study,quantitative study and comprehensive study will be increased.The relationship and the law between the environmental change and the channel evolution will be reinforced.