Lake-ice conveyor deposits: Geomorphology, sedimentology, and importance in reconstructing the glacial history of the Dry Valleys

Abstract

During the last glacial maximum (LGM), lake-ice conveyors transported glacial debris across the surface of large proglacial lakes in the Dry Valleys region of Antarctica. The resulting sediments and landform assemblages are keys to interpreting the glacial history of the Dry Valleys and, potentially, other areas of Antarctica. Paleoconveyor deposits occur in Taylor, Miers, Wright, and Victoria Valleys, as well as in many other parts of the region. Sediments typically consist of stratified to massive sand and/or silt grading upward into poorly sorted gravel, cobbles, and boulders. These sediments make up a variety of landforms, including mounds and moat line, cross-valley, and longitudinal ridges. The classic landform assemblage also displays an associated moraine bank, as well as deltas and shorelines.