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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
AAPG Bulletin
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The Klang-Langat delta empties into the Straits of Malacca at 3° N. lat. along the west coast of the Malay Peninsula. Both the delta and its catchment basin are located in the wet tropics with mean annual rainfall ranging from 80 to 140 inches. The subaerial delta occupies about 160 square miles. Wave energy levels along this coast are low to moderate; the range of mean spring tides is 15 feet. Tidal processes dominate sediment dispersal patterns and control delta form. An extensive tongue-shaped sand bank or shoal (Angsa Bank) is down-drift from the delta. The subaerial delta displays a maze of criss-crossing tidal channels separating mangrove islands. Although the system has the configuration of an estuary, it is in reality a complex delta of the Klang and Langat R vers.
Six major environments and facies are recognized in the active delta. The most seaward of these consists of well-sorted medium-grained sand deposited on extensive shoals or banks. Sorting reflects intensity of tidal currents. Local concentrations of shell and transported organic debris also are characteristic. This marine sand forms the bulk of the subaqueous delta deposits. Fringing the subaerial delta are broad low tidal flats composed of irregular-bedded, fine-grained sand, silt, and clay. Networks of small tidal creeks dissect the flats; shellfish and other burrowing organisms abound. Bottom sediment in major tidal channels is predominantly clayey sand with local concentrations of shell and transported organic debris. Mangrove-covered islands constitute most of the active subaeria delta. Although organic production is high, it is overshadowed by fine-grained detritus resulting in accumulation of organic clay, rather than peat. On the margins of the islands small sandy accretion beaches border channel mouths. Central parts of large islands and back-swamp areas between major channels in the older parts of the delta are occupied by large fresh-water jungle-covered swamps. These are the sites of woody peat accumulations which attain thickness of 20 feet or more.
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