CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Bhiry, N.; and Filion, L.
Date : 1996
Title : Holocene plant succession in a dune-swale environment of southern Quebec: A macrofossil analysis.
Publication : Ecoscience
Issue : 3(3):
Page(s) : 330-342.
Abstract
Macrofossil data allowed the reconstruction of the developmental history of a paludified dunefield site in the Central St. Lawrence Lowland, Quebec. Peat accumulation started between dunes around 7000 years BP after a period of free drainage reflected by podzolized sands. In interdune depressions, the vegetation developed from aquatic communities to damp forests, fen and bog communities. Between ca 7000-4100 years BP, slow peat accumulation reflected effective plant decomposition in the depressions while free drainage prevailed on the dune ridges. After 4100 years BP, wetness increased, and beaver occupied the site until ca 3800-3750 years BP. After 3750 years BP, the contrast between dunes and swales was attenuated by the vertical expansion and lateral spread of peat and the overall ombrotrophication of the site. Peat accumulation resulted from regional climatic changes toward moister conditions after 7000 (peat initiation), 4100 (beaver occupation), 3000 (larch establishment on slopes) and 1500 (ombrotrophication) years BP.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology