Models in geomorphology- Quaternary evolution of the actual relief pattern of coastal central and northern Namib desert
Date
1980
Authors
Rust, U.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Bernard Price Institute for Palaeontological Research
Abstract
Field and laboratory results gained at various SWA/Namibian sites between the Kuiseb
river in the south and the Unjab river in the north are presented. At the Namib coast under
study two low stands of sea level and two high stands, one of them of Intra-Wurmian age,
can be proved. From Toscanini northward a third (? Holocene) high stand exists besides the
other two. The former shore lines can be linked spatially and temporally to the terrestrial relief
sequences by means of fluvial and eolian land forms and sediments. Thus the changing
patterns of more arid or more humid environments at different morphoclimatic stages up to
the present one can be described. Furthermore, it is evident that the geomorphic processes
themselves change regionally, and it is seen that the Central Namib desert is a geomorphologically
unique area in comparison with the Skeleton Coast and the southern dune area.
Finally, the tendencies of Quaternary landscape evolution even enable us to deduce some
geoecological consequences concerning man's activities in this desert.
Description
Main article
Keywords
Geomorphology; Quaternary; Namib; Desert
Citation
None