Evolution of fluvial terraces in response to climate change and tectonic uplift during the Pleistocene: Evidence from Kamienica and Ochotnica River valleys (Polish Outer Carpathians)

Fluvial terraces of Kamienica and Ochotnica River valleys recorded vertical movements of the Earth's crust and oscillatory changes in the Pleistocene climate. Seven terrace levels are present in the valleys, usually built of a bedrock surface overlain by a fluvial sediment cover of various thickness. These flights of terraces formed a staircase-like relief during the cyclical evolution of the valley bottoms. During the interglacial periods, valley bottoms widened and bedrock platforms were formed that later became the base on which fluvial deposits accumulated. The main phases of aggradation took place during the glacial periods and partly also in the interglacials. Incision and deepening of the valleys were mainly confined to the phases of glacial–interglacial transition, additionally also during interglacials and the interglacial–glacial transitions while the area was uplifted constantly throughout the Pleistocene. Results of the research were supported by published studies on simulation and modelling.

Research Highlights► A comprehensible reconstruction of not still fully revealed river terraces forming. ► A staircase-like relief resulted the cyclical evolution of river systems. ► Lack of incision and deepening despite continuous uplift during glacial periods. ► Main incision attributed to warming transitions. ► Valuable for its potential worldwide significance.