Changes in Cave Sedimentation Mechanisms During the Late Quaternary: An Example From the Lower Cerovačka Cave, Croatia

During archeological excavations in the Lower Cerovačka Cave (Mt. Velebit, Croatia), test trench penetrated to a depth of 1.8 m. An undisturbed sequence sediments was exposed. Considering that caves represent highly efficient sediment traps it possible recognize changes depositional mechanisms during Pleistocene–Holocene period. Using multiproxy approach, mineralogical, petrographic, and biostratigraphic characterization cave performed. Facies analysis revealed several stages development clastic filling channels. Allochthonous origin assumed. Sedimentation took place under various conditions from pronounced cold dry climate Pleistocene base profile, humid periods with anthropogenic influence Holocene at very top profile. Although traditionally these were believed be age, here for first time stratigraphic calibration profile has been performed based on luminescence dating detrital radiometric speleothems.