Biostratigraphic correlation of the Kärlich Interglacial, Northwestern Germany

Abstract

Palaeobotanical investigations of limnic sediments in the Karlich clay pit (Middle Rhine area) in Northwestern Germany indicate that deposition took place during a middle Pleistocene interglacial, the initial part of which is absent at the site investigated. Of special biostratigraphic importance is the occurrence of taxa Azolla filiculoides, Pterocarya and Celtis auslralis. In the Carpinus‐Betula zone of this interglacial, early Palaeolithic artifacts are present. Remains of mammalian fauna have been found in the investigated layers. The interglacial has no clear palaeobotanic equivalent in Northwestern Europe, but the intermediate character of the palaeoflora suggests an intra‐Saalian age.