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Russian Geology and Geophysics

2010 year, number 4

NEW DATA ON QUATERNARY MORPHOLITHOGENESIS IN THE CHUYA BASIN ( Gorny Altai )

I.D. Zol’nikova,c, E.V. Deevb,c, and V.A. Lyaminaa,c
a V.S. Sobolev Institute of Geology and Mineralogy, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 3 pr. Akad. Koptyuga, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
b A.A. Trofimuk Institute of Petroleum Geology and Geophysics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 3 prosp. Akad. Koptyuga, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
c Novosibirsk State University, 2 ul. Pirogova, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
Keywords: Intermontane basins, Neopleistocene, glaciations, glacier-dammed lakes, Gorny Altai
Pages: 339-348

Abstract

New data have been obtained on the paleogeographic and stratigraphic assignment of Neopleistocene morpholithogenesis in the Chuya basin. They were derived from analysis of topographical maps, digital elevation models, and medium- and high-resolution satellite images as well as a textural and facies characteristic of Quaternary sections. Near the basin side, a paragenetic association of sediments is widespread. These sediments, laid down by fluid debris flows and mudflows, formed a ridge terrain during the emptying of a Late Quaternary paleolake. A diluvial–erosional origin of a series of small parallel scarps has been suggested. They are usually interpreted as wave-cut benches, which mark temporary levels of a glacier-dammed lake. We have examined geological evidence for a high glacial dam with an age of maximum glaciation inside the Chuya basin. Because of the dam, glacial floods during the Middle Neopleistocene were larger than those during the Late Neopleistocene.