Würmian paleoclimate and glaciation in Corsica

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Joachim Kuhlemann
• Subject Area: Palaeontology
• Term: from 2005 to 2006
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5438561

Systematic investigation of glacial deposits and trimelines in Corsica enabled to map the maximum extent of glaciers during the (late) Würmian. The reconstruction of the ancient equilibrium line altitude (ELA) pattern provides important information on the regional climate during the Würmian maximum glaciation in the nordwestern Mediterranean realm. However, a robust stratigraphic framework for moraine deposits needs to be established. To establish age constraints for the deposition of moraines within the Würmian we aim to determine exposure ages of large boulders rising above Würmian moraines by dating 10Be cosmogenic isotopes. Mesoscale topography appears to control ELA pattern on Corsica, and paricularities of this control such as quantification of funneling effects are potentially applicable in many mountain ranges.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Erhard Bibus; Professor Dr. Wolfgang Frisch; Professor Dr. Volker Mosbrugger