Geomorphology and Kinematic Characteristics of the Derebaşı Rock Glacier, Mt. Kaçkar
Abstract
Rock glaciers are significant periglacial landforms that play a crucial role in high mountain environments, acting as indicators of permafrost distribution and climate change impacts. This study investigates the geomorphological characteristics and kinematic behavior of the Derebaşı Rock Glacier (DRG), located in the Eastern Black Sea Mountains, one of the most extensive periglacial regions in Türkiye. Using GNSS-supported UAV photogrammetry, high-resolution Digital Surface Models (DSMs) and orthophotos were generated to analyze the annual movement, surface deformation, and activity status of the rock glacier between 2023 and 2024. The results reveal that the DRG exhibits a complex morphology consisting of active, inactive, and relict sections, shaped by both glacial (ice-core) and periglacial (permafrost) processes. The LB3 is identified as the most active part of the rock glacier, with a maximum annual horizontal movement of 60 cm, while LB1’s front section is classified as relict, characterized by a subdued topography and vegetation cover. The LB1’s mid-section exhibits deep parallel ridge-trough structures, indicative of permafrost creep, whereas LB3’s convex shape and smooth surface suggest an ice-core presence. The kinematic analysis indicates heterogeneous movement patterns influenced by topographic constraints and debris supply, with compression-induced flow structures in LB1 and tensile deformation patterns in LB3. The study also estimates that the current lower boundary of mountain permafrost in the region is approximately 2900 m. While the detected movements suggest possible permafrost instability, the single-year observation period limits conclusive assessments of long-term trends. This research provides the first high-resolution kinematic assessment of the Derebaşı Rock Glacier, offering essential insights into its geomorphological evolution and climate sensitivity in Türkiye. Future studies incorporating long-term monitoring programs, geophysical surveys, and borehole investigations will be essential to better understand the subsurface ice content, permafrost stability, and the long-term response of rock glaciers to climate change.
Keywords
Front Slope , Ice core , Mountain Permafrost , Periglacial , UAV Photogrammetry
Kaynakça
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