The loess deposits of Buca Dei Corvi section (Central Italy): Revisited

Abstract

Loess deposits have been described in the past for the upper section of Buca Dei Corvi succession (Central Italy). In this paper the deposits were re-analyzed to clarify the depositional environment and to attempt a paleoclimate reconstruction. Two radiocarbon dates on pedogenic carbonate constrain the ages to the Late Glacial, and are consistent with previous OSL dating of the top of the succession. The non-marine mollusc assemblage shows typical character of cold and dry climatic conditions, testified by strong oligo typical composition. Mineralogy and geochemistry of the sediments indicate the abundant presence of exotic quartz mineral which can be explained only by wind transport. Probably, wind transport was also responsible of deposition of carbonate which then dissolved and re-precipitated producing pedogenic concretions. Stable isotopes (13C/12C and 18O/16 31 O32 ratios) of the concretions are consistent with a climate drier than present conditions, with an environment characterized by sparse vegetation.