Abstract
In this paper we introduce the term 'loess pyramid' for an unusual form of relief in thick loess deposits. From a distance, the loess pyramid resembles a haystack; this is why it is known as 'the haystack' by the local residents. Its erosional origin is conditional, occurring only where loess deposits are thick and gully erosion changes direction significantly. We describe a loess pyramid on a thick loess section near the Tisa (Tisza) River in Titel province, Serbia. The pyramid has a maximum altitude of 111.6 m, a width of 82 m and a length of 52 m. It is framed by two smaller gullies that belong to one hydrological system, but each has different morphological properties. The gullies output directly to the floodplain of the Tisa River, which cut the escarpment that the pyramid is set within. Given the relatively small number of references from the international and geomorphological literature on such landforms, this study represents an interesting contribution to the geomorphology of loess landscapes.
Highlights
The morphology of loess relief depends on many factors, the most important one is often the thickness of the loess itself
Because loess soils are favorable for agriculture, human activities can have a significant influence on erosion (Leger, 1990; Lavrusevich, Skapintsev, 2013)
Because the pyramid has formed due to the undercutting of the escarpment by the Tisa River and subsequent erosion by running water, the base of the pyramid lies on the alluvial plain of the river, at 77 m
Summary
The morphology of loess relief depends on many factors, the most important one is often the thickness of the loess itself. When loess deposits are thick, new and unique landforms may develop, as modified by the unique erosional properties of the loess (Zhu, et al, 2002). Properties of the wind and loess accumulation processes have significant impacts on modifying the relief in loess-based terrain (Leger, 1990). The large contents of carbonates or clay as a bonding agent affect its cohesiveness, facilitating the formation of various shapes by water and wind erosion. Since running water can be very effective at entraining and transporting loess, the dimensions and shapes of loess landforms can change over short periods of time. Because loess soils are favorable for agriculture, human activities can have a significant influence on erosion (Leger, 1990; Lavrusevich, Skapintsev, 2013)
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