Abstract
ABSTRACTGeo- and palaeoecological studies focusing on the late Pleistocene require a detailed knowledge of the spatial distribution of aeolian sediments. In Germany, existing maps are either on large scales, have a regional focus or show significant inaccuracies such as artificial boundaries within different geological units. To obtain a more detailed, seamless map of the distribution of aeolian sediments and their potential source areas, we combined and reanalysed available geodata, using a Geographical Information System. The resultant maps (scale: approx. 1:2,600,000) show the link between source areas and the late Quaternary aeolian deposits in Germany and can provide one context for further work on, e.g. palaeogeographical studies. This work was compared with other already published datasets and the problems of sediment mapping at a small scale were discussed.
Highlights
The deposition of aeolian sediments depends on specific geographic conditions (Pécsi, 1990, 1991)
Geo- and palaeoecological studies focusing on the late Pleistocene require a detailed knowledge of the spatial distribution of aeolian sediments
Four factors are required for the formation of aeolian sediment bodies: (1) a dust source, from which the sediment is deflated, (2) sufficient wind energy, (3) a sink, where the topographic and environmental conditions favour the sediment deposition and (4) a sufficiently long period of time (Pye, 1995; Smalley, Marković, & Svirčev, 2011)
Summary
The deposition of aeolian sediments depends on specific geographic conditions (Pécsi, 1990, 1991). Since loess in Europe was mainly accumulated during the cold stages of the Quaternary (Marković et al, 2015; Muhs & Bettis, 2003), the distribution pattern of aeolian sediments and their potential source areas give important information about palaeogeographical conditions (Sprafke & Obreht, 2016). Fink, Haase, and Ruske (1977) created a map for Western, Central and Eastern Europe at a scale of 1:2,500,000 in collaboration with researchers from various countries. This map was completed and digitised by Haase et al (2007). Other maps published in scientific studies during the last decades are characterised by either a regional (Antoine et al, 2003; Lill & Smalley, 1978) or a global scale (Muhs & Bettis, 2003; Pécsi, 1990)
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