Periglacial markers within the Late Pleistocene loess–palaeosol sequences in Poland and Western Ukraine

摘要: Abstract Stratigraphic loess–palaeosol sequences represent exceptional, climate-controlled, terrestrial records of interglacial–glacial cycles. One the most spectacular features within northern part European loess belt is occurrence well-preserved relicts periglacial structures. From a variety structures, three types are especially useful to reconstruct former environment: cryogenic wedges with primary mineral infilling, cryoturbation and gelifluction structures; ice-wedge casts. These structures form well-distinguishable horizons their stratigraphic positions not random. Periglacial recorded in Late Pleistocene study area were formed as result extreme climatic conditions and/or rapid environmental changes during cold events Last Glacial period. noted almost all investigated sections, thus they can be used markers. The number morphological vary, depending on geographical settings local conditions. record indicates four main stages Two earlier last interglacial–early glacial palaeosol complex. Their onset was probably rapid. short periods correlated MIS 5d 5b. next two correspond 4 2. Only ice-wedges zone area. This twofold expansion disappearance permafrost