Journal article
Dunes and dunefields in the Bolivian Chaco as potential records of environmental change
JH May
Aeolian Research | ELSEVIER SCI LTD | Published : 2013
Abstract
Eastern Bolivia is situated along the southern margin of the Amazon basin where climate is characterized by the strong hydroclimatic seasonality and high wind speeds related to the South American Low Level Jet (SALLJ). In this setting, this paper explores the geomorphology and environmental significance of the aeolian record in the Bolivian Chaco. Based on the analysis of remote sensing imagery, 10 dunefields were mapped. Their size, topography and geomorphic setting reflect long-term interactions with the fluvial system in the Andean foreland. Preserved aeolian morphology includes different types of linear sand streaks and ridges, parabolic and elongate parabolic morphologies, source-border..
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Funding Acknowledgements
This research has been funded by SNF-project 'Palaeoecology of Eastern Bolivia' (200020-105228/1). Haim Tsoar is thanked for kindly providing Fig. 2a. The author would also like to thank Tim Cohen, Luke Gliganic, Nick Lancaster, Edgardo Latrubesse, Frank Preusser, Haim Tsoar, Heinz Veit, and Xiaoping Yang for fruitful discussions on aeolian geomorphology in the Chaco. The comments of two anonymous reviewers helped to improve the quality of this paper. Also, the logistical support of the Museo de Historia Natural Noel Kempff Mercado, Santa Cruz (Bolivia) is gratefully acknowledged.