Investigating the loess–palaeosol sequence of Bahlingen-Schönenberg (Kaiserstuhl), southwestern Germany, using a multi-methodological approach

Abstract. Loess–palaeosol sequences (LPSs) are key archives for the reconstruction of Quaternary environmental conditions, but there is a lack investigated records from southern Upper Rhine Graben (southwestern Germany). To close this gap, LPS at Bahlingen-Schönenberg was high resolution using multi-method approach. Infrared stimulated luminescence screening reveals major hiatus in lower part that according to dating older than marine isotope stage (MIS) 4. The section above formed by quasi-continuous loess sedimentation between ca. 34 and 27 ka, interrupted phases weak reductive pedogenesis. fact pedogenesis much weaker compared corresponding horizons more northerly could be due regionally drier conditions caused different atmospheric circulation pattern time deposition. Our results reinforce earlier notions shifts leading into Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) Central Europe significantly predate transition MIS 3 2 (ca. 29 ka). In particular, last massive phase accumulation started several thousand years prior arrival glaciers foreland Alps, which raises questions regarding source transport paths dust. It also noted no LGM or thereafter observed either deposition later erosion.