Upper pleistocene loess stratigraphy and paleolithic site chronology on the Russian plain

Abstract

AbstractLoess stratigraphy provides the best existing means of establishing an accurate geochronology for the Paleolithic of the Russian Plain, especially for time periods beyond the range of radiocarbon dating. Loess/paleosol sequences in adjoining regions, particularly Central Europe where correlation with oxygen‐isotope stratigraphy has been achieved, represent a useful standard for the correlation and dating of loess deposits on the Russian Plain. However, better control is needed over local paleoenvironmental conditions and colluvial redeposition. Correlation is facilitated by two key marker horizons: buried soils of the Last Interglacial (127,000‐116,000 B.P.) and the terminal Middle Pleniglacial (30,000‐25,000 B.P.); assignment of paleosols and loess beds between these markers to time‐stratigraphic units in the Upper Pleistocene sequence is sometimes problematic. Paleolithic remains on the Russian Plain are typically contained in colluvial loam, but can often be related to primary loess stratigraphy. Analysis of the latter suggests sharp contrasts with Western and Central Europe in the timing and distribution of Paleolithic settlement, apparently reflecting the harsher environments of the Russian Plain.