SEDIMENTARY INDICATORS OF LAKE-LEVEL CHANGES IN THE HUMID TEMPERATE ZONE - A CRITICAL-REVIEW

Evidence for lake-level changes derived from stratigraphic sequences i n cores from littoral zones is reviewed in the context of lake sedimen tation processes. These are illustrated with published case-studies wh ich have used multiple-core data. Possible approaches for choosing opt imum sites are examined. Sedimentation controls which may change over time are also considered; these include, wind strength and frequency, wind exposure, water depth and underwater slopes, sediment type and li ttoral vegetation. A final section discusses how lake-level studies ca n be optimised so that results can be used with confidence in paleocli matic and paleohydrological reconstructions. Sedimentary data showing shifts in littoral vegetation along shallow underwater gradients in sh eltered margins, and transitions between sediment compositions linked to specific hydrological conditions give the strongest lines of eviden ce.