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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 52 (1968)

Issue: 9. (September)

First Page: 1836

Last Page: 1836

Title: Pleistocene Sea Levels and Continental Margin Sedimentation: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Robert F. Dill

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Continental margin sedimentation has been controlled greatly by large fluctuations of Pleistocene sea level and differential channeling of sediment down submarine canyons. Relatively recent stillstands of the strandline have cut terraces and sea cliffs into the continental slope to 700 ft below present sea level. Shallow-water fossils of late Pleistocene age have been collected from these terraces during deep-submersible dives with the Deepstar. During the lowered stand most submarine canyons actively diverted shallow-water sediments into the deep sea and marginal basins. Deep dives and extensive sampling of the large sediment fans formed during this period have shown a predictable sediment-distribution pattern that can be related to ancient deposits of similar origin.

Colored motion pictures, taken during scuba dives and from deep submersibles, show presently active processes of sedimentation and erosion in submarine canyons and associated deep-sea fans. Similar pictures, taken during dive traverses off Southern California, and Baja California, Mexico, show the relations of prograding slope sediments to the deeply submerged terraces, associated sea cliffs, and shallow-water sediments.
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