A 'snapshot' of the evolution of the Uruguay River (Del Plata Basin): the Salto depositional sequence (Pleistocene, Uruguay, South America)

This paper provides sedimentological details of the Salto depositional sequence of western Uruguay, which includes the Salto and the Bellaco Formations. These units are interpreted as evidence, in the Uruguayan landscape, of a Pleistocene forebear of the Uruguay River. The Salto depositional sequence, encompasses two depositional cycles: (a) the lower cycle, represented only by the Salto Formation, with conglomeratic sandstones and sandstones intercalated with pelites and fine sandstones; and (b) the upper cycle, represented by the Salto Formation and the Bellaco Formation, characterized by conglomerates and conglomeratic sandstones with horizontal stratification, discontinuous silicified sandy levels and gypsum-clay bodies. The Salto sequence is characterized by braided river deposits, genetically associated with lacustrine or palustrine and possible aeolian sediments. Cyclic alternations of channelized tractive currents and interchannel contexts are indicated. A possible Pleistocene age for the Salto Formation is discussed, in the light of new and preliminary information (thermoluminescence ages) from the lower cycle. There are several lines of evidence indicating semi-arid conditions during the 'Salto event'. Comments on regional correlation are provided, as well as the effects of neotectonic processes.