Evolution of the buried channel systems under the modern Yellow River Delta since the Last Glacial Maximum

Abstract

A combined seismic survey and borehole analysis revealed a series of buried channels under the modern Yellow River Delta. These data also provide evidence for the evolutionary study of the paleo-channel system. Seismic units were correlated with the sedimentary facies along the borehole. Two sets of paleo-channels, phase I and phase II, are identified within different seismic units spanning the last deglaciation (∼13–8.5 ka B.P.). The phase I channels formed between the Last Glacial Maximum and the Last Deglaciation. Estimates of paleo-discharge and analysis of local depositary environment link the phase I channels with the main stream of the paleo-Yellow river. These channels were fed by melting ice caps and were abandoned with the rechanneling of the Yellow River. The phase II channels were formed during the early Holocene and exhibited a dendritic pattern. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the origin and evolution of the phase II channels.