On the problem of the planation surfaces at the SE Caucasus

Abstract

A history is considered of the planation surfaces studies in the SE Caucasus mountains. Each surface morphology is described in details and reliability of its identification 'is discussed. In the author's opinion not more than 4 planation surfaces really exist in the region. Numerous surfaces (5 to 6 and more) which have been distinguished by other research workers are due to tectonic distortions of a single surface. The auf tor does not consider the Shahdag summit level to be a planation surface; ancient (Oligocene or Oligocene-Miocene) placation surfaces do not persist within the high mountain zone.