Caspian regressions (their place in the Quaternary history and importance for the bottom relief formation)

Abstract

Regressions were of considerable importance in the Quaternary history of the Capsian Sea. Studies carried out by the Laboratory of Marine Geomorphology (Geographic Faculty of the Moscow State University) revealed a series of deep regressions, when not only North Caspian shallows but almost the whole surface of the Caspian shelf emerged. Each regression is proved to be a complicated event, developed through many phases, with alternating changes of level. The present-day floor relief was modeled to a large extent during regressions.