Paleoclimatic evolution of the Uvs Nuur basin and adjacent areas (Western Mongolia)

The investigations presented in this paper focus on the shifts in Pleistoce ne glaciations and the geomorphic changes in landforms, as well as lake lev el changes and aeolian deposits of the last glacial-interglacial cycle, inc luding the Holocene. Geomorphic evidence and high lake levels show that the climate was more humid before the last glacial maximum (LGM); however, at least one arid phase also occurred. During the second half of the LGM the c limate was dry and cold, turning to wet and cold during the Late Glacial of the last Ice Age. Fluctuations in humidity and temperature occurred during the Holocene. Since about 2000 yr BP the impact of human activity has incr eased. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd and INQUA. All rights reserved.