Character, age, and ecological significance of Pleistocene periglacial slope deposits in Germany

Periglacial slope deposits (PSD) of Pleistocene age are one of the most widely distributed sediment types in nonglaciated mid-latitude regions. As diamictons of different genesis (geli-solifluction, cryoturbation, eolian transportation) they have a wide range of physical, chemical and mineralogical characteristics which are mainly controlled by bed-rock geology, including saprolite. This paper reviews concepts used in Germany to study PSD stratigraphy and describes the different PSD units encountered (Upper Head, Middle Head, Lower Head). The paper is relevant to the understanding of PSDs in other midlatitude regions. Classical and new results concerning the age of PSDs show differences in the interpretation of Upper Head genesis. In terms of their ecological significance, case studies from eastern Bavaria illustrate the influence of PSDs on the character and intensity of slope hydrological processes as well as on the formation and distribution of soils. Presently important research questions include (1) the establishment of a genetically based classification of PSDs, (2) the intensification of dating studies on PSDs, and (3) the clarification of hydrological processes in PSDs.