Formal stratigraphy of the Neopleistocene (Middle and Upper/Late Pleistocene) in the Kola region, NW Russia

Abstract

This paper presents available litho-/chrono-/biostratigraphy data on sediment sequences in the Kola region derived from Russian publications. Based on this compilation, key sections have been suggested for primary stratigraphic subdivisions, or Horizons, according to the General Quaternary Stratigraphic chart of Russia. The regional Quaternary scheme is correlated with the International Chart. Summarizing the available data, 10 geological sections have been proposed as key sites/sections for the Middle and Upper/Late Neopleistocene Horizons. In different sections in the southern Kola Peninsula, the most ancient deposits correspond to the Chekalinsky (Early Saalian, MIS 9) Horizon, which is identified by ESR dating and multi-proxy data, and also to the Moskovsky (Late Saalian, MIS 6) Horizon specified according to litostratigraphic data. The Last interglacial-glacial cycle relates to the Mikulinsky (entire MIS 5), Podporozhsky (MIS 4), Leningradsky (MIS 3) and Ostashkovsky (MIS 2) Horizons. Two marine events identified in key sections on the coastal Kola Peninsula correspond to the Last Interglacial Mikulinsky (MIS 5) Horizon. They are referred to as the Ponoi and Strelna Beds in the regional stratigraphic classification. The third marine unit is correlated to the Interstadial Leningradsky (MIS 3) Horizon. Key sections in the central and western Kola region provide the interglacial and interstadial terrestrial sequences. There is a high probability that litho-/biostratigraphy data and a single numerical IR-OSL dating testify to the Glacial Podporozhsky (MIS 4) Horizon deposits in coastal natural outcrops and boreholes in the Lovozero Tundra Mountains. Key sections of the Ostashkovsky (MIS 2) Horizon have not been referred to in the formal Kola region stratigraphy yet.