C2: Sedimentation in Late Quaternary continental shelf systems

(T. Hanebuth, Bremen; J.-M. Jouanneau, Bordeaux)

Shelf seas are of the highest economical and ecological importance and sedimentary and oceanographic patterns are complex. The major external factors that drive sedimentary processes and control stratigraphic architecture are hydrological conditions, sediment input, sea level, climate conditions, and the pre-existing morphology. Consequently, sedimentary processes occur as a highly variable interplay on different temporal and spatial scales. The aim of this session is to provide an overview on current research activities in shelf environments and to stimulate an exchange of experiences and ideas. Special foci are 1) the actualistic comparison of sedimentary processes, 2) the influence of climate and sea-level changes, 3) local erosion and accumulation dynamics, 4) variability and utilization of sedimentary depocenters, 5) stratigraphic geometries and dating solutions, and 6) the roles of coastline and shelf break as critical interfaces.