Characterisation of aeolian sediment accumulation and preservation across complex topography

Topography fundamentally influences the distribution and morphology of aeolian landforms via modification surface wind flow creation space for sediment deposition. This has been observed at both landform (individual topographic dune forms) macro-landscape (sand sea) scales. Although previous studies have considered several aspects impact topography on landforms, patterns landscape-scale accumulation that emerge meso-scale, within topographically complex environments received less consideration. To address this, we present an approach combines information presence surficial sand (via remote sensing) with morphometric feature classification method, LandSerf. Using Cady Mountains in Mojave Desert as a case study, explore relationships between cover indices over length scales 102–103 m. Field observations are then used to refine our understanding these patterns. Aeolian deposits across strongly controlled by topography. is often continuous highly variable depth, four archetypal “accommodation types” identified from analysis: Slopes, Plains, Valley-Fills, Slope-Valley composite. Specific accommodation spaces may manifest ramps climbing - falling dunes, particularly mountain front sheets downwind Plains block. In areas high supply also coalescence, exemplified extensive compositionally composites northern Mountains. conjunction field observations, argue topography, moderated proximity supply, character sedimentary record. However, even relatively landscape studied here, 90% mapped associated types. The implication such amenable analysis scheme outlined this can potentially be support interpretations accompanying chronologies.