Origin, evolution and paleoclimatic-ecologic significance of sand dunes in the Mutonga drainage, Mount Kenya

Abstract

An extensive dune field in the Mutonga drainage on the eastern flank of Mount Kenya yielded information regarding the nature and age of the sediments, soil characteristics, vegetation distribution and paleoclimate. Surface sediments consist of silty-clayey materials with ∼40% sand, whereas subsurface sediments consist largely of poorly altered sands, possibly of wind-blown origin. The data suggest that desiccation, beginning about ∼1500 yr ago, resulted in removal of vegetation and emplacement of dunes over an older surface that may have a wind-blown origin. This interpretation supports the pollen chronology for the Mount Kenya area.