Geomorphology of the Eastern Algarve proximal continental margin (South Portugal, SW Iberia Peninsula): sedimentary dynamics and its relationship with the last asymmetrical eustatic cycle

Authors

  • C. Roque
  • F. J. Hernández-Molina
  • F. Lobo
  • L. Somoza
  • V. Díaz-del-Rio
  • J. T. Vázquez
  • J. Dias

Abstract

Key-words: geomorphology, proximal continental margin, Late Pleistocene-Holocene, sea-level changes, Eastern Algarve. Four morphological categories were recognised using high resolution seismic data on the Eastern Algarve proximal continental margin (South Portugal): depositional (littoral prism, prodelta, shelf sedimentary cover and slope accumulation), erosive (palaeo-channels, submarine terraces, transgressive surface and erosive surface over the slope), gravity (slides and slumps), and neotectonic (submarine scarp). These morphologies were generated during the Late Pleistocene-Holocene, as a result of the interplay between several factors, namely, the rate of sedimentary supply, the oceanographic conditions, the neotectonic activity and the sea-level changes from the last lowstand to the present highstand related with the last eustatic cycle. The Late Quaternary sea-level changes have been the main control and modelling factor for the development of most depositional and erosional morphologies.

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Published

2011-01-28

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Articles