The Volga delta - structure and evolution

Abstract

The recent Volga delta represents a vast young (Middle Holocene - recent) dynamic constructional unroofed structure. The proper deltaic sediments are rather thin, snow three-fold sequence of regressive type and include various freshwater faces. The Volga mouth underwent considerable changes in the course of the last geological epoch; it was an estuary at the Early Khvalynian maximum, incised and hummocky deltas during regressive phases of the Late Khvalynian, and lobate multi-channeled delta at present. The present delta structure began to form since the New Caspian transgression and passed successively stages of avandelta, a narrow («Kultuk») bay, alluvial subaerial fan. The main factor controlling the delta structure .and evolution is non-stationary regime of the Caspian Sea.