Sedimentology and high-frequency cycles of the late Pleistocene of the Bizerte area (N-E Tunisia)

Abstract

Quaternary deposits are well known around the Mediterranean basin especially those exposed along the Tunisia Coast. This work focuses on the Pleistocene deposits outcropping along the Bizerte littoral (Northeastern Tunisia) with special attention to coastal deposits and their evolution during the late Pleistocene. The sedimentologic analysis carried on four cross-sections exhibits a complete Quaternary series that begin with basal erosive surface and marine deposits attributed to the last interglacial period. The Pleistocene deposits represent a 3rd-order sequence that is divided into 2 (4th–5th order) shallowing-upward sequences that are interpreted as a response to glacio-eustatic events. The lower sequence consists mainly of shoreface facies which evolve to foreshore and continental facies. The upper sequence shows a dune facies with cross-stratification and continental gastropods (eolian deposit interbedded with red to gray paleosoils). Those eolian deposits and paleosoils levels are related to the highstand system track of the 3rd-order sequence.