Suzdalevo Lake (Central Siberia, Russia)—A Tunguska Event-Related Impact Crater?

In 1908, a massive explosion known as the Tunguska Event (TE) occurred in Central Siberia. However, its origin remains widely discussed and environmental impacts are not detail. We investigated evidence of TE sediments Suzdalevo Lake, which is located near epicenter. According to local nomads (Evenkis), Lake did exist before was considered possible impact-origin water body. apart from oral testimony, there no lake formation process. Two short sediment cores (SUZ1 SUZ3) were retrieved dated using 210 Pb 137 Cs. The sedimentary record characterized magnetic susceptibility, X-ray fluorescence, screening for melted microspherules. To study effects on ecosystem, we performed diatom freshwater fauna analyses. Results indicate that contains originated thus related impact. Also, depth diameter ratio basin too low (<1/100) young impact crater. one two (SUZ1), documented distinct changes lake-catchment ecosystem within 5-cm-thick interval calculated best fit depths year 1908 three alternative age-depth models (CRS, CIC, CFCS), namely, increases terrestrial matter input (abundant fine plant macroremains, peaks susceptibility Sr Rb ratio) taxonomic diversity relative abundance benthic taxa. shifts aquatic biota assemblages likely caused by nutrient supply improved column mixing following catchment disturbance. Nevertheless, precise timing observed abrupt relation clear due uncertainty dating method absence microspherules or an event layer. disturbance signals proxy data may postdate TE. Our results demonstrate potential usefulness paleolimnological approach understand consequences similar events elsewhere.