Klimazeugen des periglazialen Dauerfrostbodens in Mittel- und Westeuropa: Ein Beitrag zur Rekonstruktion des Klimas der Glaziale des quartären Eiszeitalters

Abstract. Certain periglacial phenomena (ice-wedges, cryoturbations, patterned ground, pingos) are critically investigated with respect to their outer appearance as well as to the causes of their formation, but especially how far they might be used as indicators of an old permafrost. The results for Central and Western Europe have been mapped according to our actual status of knowledge. The attempts hitherto made to reconstruct the climate of the Quaternary glacial periods, have been thoroughly checked. A new calculation of the maximum diminution of Pleistocene temperature gives a value of 15—16° C (bottom temperature) in Central and Western Europe. For the Younger Dryas we still have to expect a temperature depression of 11—12° C. Both values have been found by comparing mean annual temperatures in the border-zone of permafrost at the high-glacial time and during the Younger Dryas with the actual temperatures. This is true on the premise that the active permafrost area can be limited by the — 2° C annual isotherme, both under actual as well as under glacial climatic conditions.