Stages of topographic evolution of the SE European part of the USSR

Abstract

Paleo-geomorphological reconstructions of the SE European territory of the USSR are compiled for typical continental stages: Pre-Eifelian, Early Visean, Pre-Asselian, PreBajocian, Early Paleocene, Early Oligocene, Middle Miocene, Middle Pliocene, Middle Pleistocene. Geological-geomorphological subdivision of the Phanerozoic has been developed on the basis of gaps in geological record, paleo-landforms and topographic steps. Main taxa in the periodization are cycles which are united into macrocycles and subdivided into microcycles. Their natural boundaries are regional unconformities corresponding to either erosional landforms (paleovalleys) or plains mantled by weathering crusts. Geomorphic cycles are manifested in polygenetic planation surf aces. Cyclic units are united into system of large rhythms or stages designated in accordance with conventional geotectonic nomenclature. The anthropogenous (technogenous) stage is argued to be unit of the the same rank as the natural stages.