LATE PLEISTOCENE-HOLOCENE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT OF ISLANDS OFF VIETNAM

Relief and deposits of Vietnam shelf islands (Tkhanlam, Kaoptyaotyai, Koto, Kaotkhaotyai, Dongkho, Fongwong, Timatao Re, Che, Mung, Tyam, Ko ndao, Baikan, Fukuok, Tkhotyu, Tkhom) were studied. In the Late Pleist ocene-Holocene these areas were the islands during transgressions, whe n the continent was submerged. The islands were connected to the conti nent during regressions. Coastal relief and deposits indicate the mark of Riss-Wurm and some Middle-Late Holocene transgressions and regress ions. Transgressions were recorded in 10, 4-6, 3-4, 2.5-3, 1.5-2 m ter races, elevated benches and elevated coral reefs. Deposits of transgre ssive phases of Middle-Late Holocene with sea level rises from 0.5 to 3 m were dated: 5060-6800, 3357-4100, 2170-2435, 900-1200 years B.P. R egressions were accompanied by intensive eolian activities, downslope processes and erosional downcut of river valleys.