Twenty-one years of German geomorphology

In recent decades, German geomorphology has been mainly concerned with climatic and climato-genetic geomorphology. The first is the study of processes, especially of process combinations in different climato-morphological zones. The second is concerned with the way exogenic forces control the evolution of relief in a certain region. This study of relief generations differs fundamentally from denudation chronology. Certain principles developed as knowledge of these fields has grown, such as the variability of rock resistance with climate and discontinuity of processes in both space and time, are considered. In recent years new trends, based mainly on climatic geomorphology, have been towards greater specialization in fields such as quantitative geomorphology, geomorphological mapping, and laboratory analysis of regolith and soil samples.     

构造地貌学

构造地貌学作为地球科学领域的新兴学科,具有独特的资源环境意义与科学内涵。通过中文文献计量学手段,对1956—2019年间收录于知网的构造地貌学领域的学术论文进行分析,尤其是近10年来重点报道的研究成果,探讨相关的研究热点与趋势。关键词与共词分析结果显示,我国构造地貌学的显著特征是与大地构造单元、地震活动紧密联系,构造地质学、地貌学、地球物理学和地理信息科学贡献了构造地貌学进展的主要部分,且研究热点在持续更新,能源盆地的古地理特征、多影响因素的耦合作用、沉积过程的响应是比较突出的研究亮点。最后,分析了我国构造地貌学的主要研究趋势和方向,并提出简要见解。     

Cellular modelling in fluvial geomorphology

This paper outlines the principles of cellular modelling in fluvial geomorphology and addresses issues of model formulation and validation in the context of numerical modelling more generally. In doing so it seeks to highlight the prospects for using cellular approaches to develop an improved understanding of both rivers and models. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Communicating geomorphology through International English

International English has come to dominate science publication. For both first and second language speakers, the constraints of language for communication in geomorphology are reviewed, including uncertainties with terminology, subtleties of qualification and explanation in the written presentation of arguments, and formalities in the rhetorical structuring of published papers. Distinctive qualities of style and presentation need to be recognized because, in geomorphology as generally, full qualitative meanings may pass lingua franca or second language speakers by, whilst formulaic discourse may disguise shortcomings. The alternative of language simplification for international usage may not be wholly desirable if valued functions are lost. Language is also increasingly being coupled with visual devices, pictorial and diagrammatic images and data tables, which are internationally intelligible. These can leave viewers with greater hermeneutic (text interpretation) freedom, and therefore a variety of outcomes in understanding. Mathematical treatments, with their precision and predictive utility, have great universal value and they leave readers with rather less interpretive freedom. Debate is due, both by first and by second English language geomorphologists, as to how well developing presentation styles in international English suit scientific purposes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

定量地震地貌学研究进展

定量地震地貌学以三维地震数据为基础,通过对地貌特征参数的定量分析来了解盆地历史、沉积过程和填充构架,在沉积体系定量分析和储层表征方面为一新方向.其主要研究内容包括系统地质研究、地震属性分析、地貌特征定量分析、沉积单元交汇分析和沉积体系影响因素研究等五方面,核心为多数据融合及沉积单元形态定量数据的利用.定量地震地貌学在冲积河道、三角洲、浊积水道、水下扇储层特征及结构研究方面已取得较大突破,在地层沉积定量研究、储集体规模预测方面具有较大优势和前景.     

Badass geomorphology

The archetypal badass is individualistic, non‐conformist, and able to produce disproportionate results. The badass concept is applied here to geomorphology. The individualistic concept of landscape evolution (ICLE) is introduced, based on three propositions: excess evolution space, capacity of all landforms to change, and variable selection pressure from environmental factors within and encompassing landscapes. ICLE indicates that geomorphic systems are idiosyncratic to some extent, and that even where two systems are similar, this is a happenstance of similar environmental selection, not an attractor state. As geomorphic systems are all individualistic, those that are also non‐conformist with respect to conventional wisdoms and have amplifier effects are considered badass. Development of meander bends on a section of the Kentucky River illustrates these ideas. The divergence of karst and fluvial forms on the inner and outer bends represents unstable amplifying effects. The divergence is also individualistic, as it can be explained only by combining general laws governing surface and subsurface flow partitioning with a specific geographical and environmental setting and the history of Quaternary downcutting of the Kentucky River. Landscape evolution there does not conform to any conventional theories or conceptual frameworks of geomorphology. The badass traits of many geomorphic systems have implications for the systems themselves, attitudes toward geomorphic practice, and appreciation of landforms. Badass geomorphology and the ICLE reflect a view, and approach to the study of, landforms as the outcome of the interplay of general laws, place‐specific controls, and history. Badass geomorphology also implies a research style receptive to contraventional wisdoms. Aesthetically, amplifier effects and individualism guarantee an essentially infinite variety of landforms and landscapes that geoscientists can appreciate both artistically and scientifically. Non‐conformity makes the interpretation and understanding of this variety more challenging – and while that increases the degree of difficulty, it also makes for more interesting and compelling professional challenges. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Qualitative and quantitative applications of LiDAR imagery in fluvial geomorphology

The potential for geomorphological mapping and quantitative calculations of light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data within fluvial geomorphology was studied for two river catchments within Belgium (Dijle and Amblève), which differ in physical settings and floodplain morphology. Two commercial, of‐the‐shelf LiDAR datasets with different specifications (horizontal resolution and vertical accuracy) were available for parts of the floodplains of both catchments. Real‐time kinematic (RTK) Global Positioning System (GPS) data were used as ground truth for error calculations. Qualitative analysis of LiDAR data allowed the identification of former channel patterns, levees, colluvial hillslope and fan deposits. These results were confirmed by field data, topographic surveys and historical maps. The pixel resolution proved to be an important factor in the identification of small landforms: only features with a width equal to or larger than LiDAR resolution can be detected. This poses limits on the usability of regionally available LiDAR data, which often have a horizontal resolution of several metres. The LiDAR data were also used in a quantitative analysis of channel dynamics. In the study area, the width of the Dijle River channel increased 3 m on average between 1969 and 2003. A sediment budget of channel processes for the period 1969–2003 indicated a total river bank erosion of 16·1 10³ m³ and a total within channel deposition of 7·1 10³ m³, resulting in a net river erosion of 9·0 10³ m³ or c. 0·4 Mg year^?1 per metre river length. Sequential LiDAR data can in theory be used to calculate vertical sedimentation rates, as long as there is control on the error of the reference levels used. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.     

Soils and geomorphology of the chalk in south-east England

Soil mapping and soil profile studies on the Chalk of south-east England outline the distribution and origin of superficial deposits more clearly than hitherto, and do not support the widely accepted history of landscape development proposed by Wooldridge and Linton (1955). Deposits formed by weathering and periglacial disturbance of a thin cover of basal Tertiary deposits occur on all parts of the dip-slope interfluves, suggesting that the exhumed sub-Tertiary surface, somewhat lowered by dissolution of the Chalk, is much more extensive than supposed by Wooldridge and Linton. The evidence for high Plio-Pleistocene sea levels is reviewed, with particular reference to their limited effect on soils and superficial deposits and on the morphology of the dip-slope. Alternative explanations for the so-called Calabrian marine platform and cliff are considered. Emphasis is placed on periglacial processes in the later Pleistocene denudation of the Chalk, and on the protective role played by the cover of disturbed basal Tertiary sediment.     

Equality,diversity, inclusion: ensuring a resilient future for geomorphology

Within and beyond academia, debates around equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) have been gathering pace. We focus on EDI and geomorphology and address four main questions: (1) why does EDI matter for geomorphology?; (2) what are the barriers to greater EDI in geomorphology?; (3) how can we address these EDI barriers?; (4) can we ensure a resilient future for geomorphology by addressing EDI? At a time of critical environmental, social and economic transition, we contend that addressing EDI is essential for ensuring a resilient geomorphology, defined here as a discipline that is seen to be adapting to these changing external circumstances so that it remains relevant, vibrant and accessible to a wide cross-section of society. Not doing so will limit the intellectual development of geomorphology, incur reputational risk for geomorphological groups and organizations like the British Society for Geomorphology, and ensure that the many potential benefits of geomorphology for science and society remain underutilized at best. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Communicating geomorphology: an empirical evaluation of the discipline's impact and visibility

Concern among geomorphologists that the discipline's visibility and impact are becoming suppressed are reflected in a series of recent Earth Surface Exchanges (ESEX) commentaries by Tooth et al. This paper from the British Society for Geomorphology (BSG) Communicating Geomorphology Fixed‐Term Working Group (FTWG) reports initial findings from an online survey of BSG members alongside an empirical assessment of the term's prominence in academic output: international peer‐reviewed journals, undergraduate Geoscience degrees in world‐leading institutions and the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF) impact statements. Our observations indicate the scientific standing of the discipline has been retained but the term itself is less widely utilised and we offer a series of suggestions actionable by the geomorphology community. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Sediment-related river maintenance: The role of fluvial geomorphology

This paper addresses the role that fluvial geomorphology might play in the management of sediment-related river maintenance in the U.K. Sediment-related river maintenance refers to the operational requirement of river management authorities to remove deposits of sediment or protect river boundaries from erosion, where these compromise the flood defence levels of service. Using data collected as part of a National Rivers Authority (NRA) Research and Development Project it is possible to identify the geomorphic causes of problems, and engineering responses to sediment-related river maintenance (SRRM) in England and Wales. The Project identified the management problem as widespread and often treated in isolation from the causative processes. Geomorphological guidance is shown to be both relevant and complementary to conventional engineering practice through its ability to identify the cause of a SRRM problem. A methodology for conducting a geomorphological survey, or ‘fluvial audit’, is presented, which synthesizes historical data on the catchment land-use and channel network, with contemporary morphological maps to present a statement of the location and type of sediment supply, transport and storage within the river basin under scrutiny. The application of geomorphology to two contrasting SRRM problems is explored using case studies from two catchments: the River Sence, a fine sediment system, and the Shelf Brook, a coarse sediment system.     

Challenges and objectives for geomorphology in U.K. river management

This paper reviews some of the challenges and objectives in the application of fluvial geomorphology to improved river management in the U.K. It describes the mechanisms by which geomorphology can be applied to solve problems, including the development of design guidance, policy, management approaches, procedures and training. While it is true that geomorphology is being used increasingly, there remain a number of challenges, such as the need to promote a more professional image and to develop appropriate standards. The scientific basis on which decisions relating to the water environment are made needs to be developed further. Perhaps some of the most significant challenges for fluvial geomorphology in U.K. river management during the next decade will concern river and floodplain restoration.     

The interaction between hydrology and geomorphology in a landscape simulator experiment

An experimental landscape simulator has been developed which uses a rainfall simulator to create overland flow and erosion. The simulator uses rainfall sprinklers that eliminate rainsplash and an artificial soil which has little cohesion. Experimental landscapes developed in the simulator evolved according to Howard's headward growth model. Elements of Glock's model could be identified during evolution (i.e. initiation and maximum extension), but other stages of this model were not observed (i.e. extension and integration). The Horton concept of cross‐grading and micropiracy and stream piracy was not observed despite the dominance of overland flow, nor the groundwater headward growth mechanism proposed by Dunne, the latter due to experimental design, which eliminated any perched groundwater table. The experimental apparatus produced model landscapes that are scaled‐down analogues of real world processes. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Metrics for quantifying anthropogenic impacts on geomorphology: road networks

This work tests the capability of a recently published topographic index, the Slope Local Length of Auto‐correlation (SLLAC), to portrait and delineate anthropogenic geomorphologies. The patterns of the anthropogenic pressure are defined considering the road network density and the Urban Complexity Index (UCI). First, the research investigates the changes in the SLLAC in two derived parameters (average SLLAC and the SLLAC surface peak curvature – Spc – per km²) connected to the increasing of the anthropogenic structures. Next, natural and anthropogenic landscapes are clustered and classified. The results show that there is a direct correlation between the road network density and the UCI, and the mean SLLAC per km². However, the Spc is inversely correlated with the anthropogenic pressure (network density and urban complexity). This shows that the surface morphology (slope) of regions presenting anthropogenic structures tends to be well organized (low Spc) and, in general, self‐similar at a long distance (higher average SLLAC). The results of the clustering approach show that the procedure can correctly depict anthropogenic landscapes having a road network density greater than about 3 km/km², also in areas covered by vegetation. This latter result is promising for the use of such a procedure in regions that cannot be seen directly from orthophotos or satellite images. The proposed method can actively capture the alteration produced by road networks on surface morphology identifying different signatures of urban development: exploration and densification networks that are responsible for increasing the local density of the network and expanding the network into new areas, respectively. The effects of this alteration on surface processes could be significant for future research, creating new questions about differences due to human or landscape forcing on Earth surface processes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Communicating geomorphology: global challenges for the twenty‐first century

The British Society for Geomorphology (BSG), established as the British Geomorphological Research Group (BGRG) in 1960, is considering how best to represent geomorphology and geomorphologists in the light of recent changes in the nature of communication. These changes provide the BSG and other academic societies with challenges and opportunities. Seven drivers of communication change are outlined: the changing position of geomorphology in higher education, the nature of academic interaction, the means of communication available, a transformation in the nature of geomorphological research, changes in funding support, the government role in resource allocation, and developments in quantifying international research impact. Challenges arising from changing communications are identified as occurring beyond the ‘academy’, in the nature of publication within the ‘academy’, and associated with meetings of the ‘academy’. Although national societies now have to contemplate significantly different purposes to provide for their members than in the twentieth century, there are opportunities available that cannot be fulfilled by international organizations alone. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

New developments in process understanding and modelling in geomorphology: introduction and overview

This Special Issue of Earth Surface Processes and Landforms develops from the ‘Geomorphology: a 2020 Vision’ Annual Conference of the British Society for Geomorphology, organised at the University of Birmingham, UK, in July 2007. Entitled ‘New Developments in Process Understanding and Modelling in Geomorphology’, the Issue comprises a vibrant selection of 10 ‘process’ papers from leading researchers in geomorphological processes who presented at Birmingham. It aims to provide a readily accessible source of new and emerging ideas in understanding different landform processes across a range of space and time scales, based on innovations in geomorphological modelling and monitoring. The last few years have seen significant and exciting changes in geomorphology, especially in conceptual developments, numerical simulations, monitoring methodologies, data‐acquisition strategies and dating techniques. The resultant empirical datasets, theory development and modelling results have generated substantial advances in the understanding of geomorphological processes, form‐process feedbacks, scale impacts, long‐term landform evolution, the effects of climate and environmental change, and human impacts and management strategies. The Special Issue attempts to address the following key challenges: (a) to build on our Conference theme ‘Geomorphology: a 2020 Vision’, by identifying fundamental areas where doors need to be opened, for example in theory development, conceptual understanding, model evaluation, integration of the chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics of geomorphological processes, experimental validation, data needs and monitoring requirements; (b) to look forward to the next decade and beyond, and critically examine some of the approaches we will need for the questions ahead; and (c) to stimulate new research in the geomorphological sciences by highlighting both research gaps and promising developments, including emerging process modelling approaches, monitoring technologies and robust datasets. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

后差分GPS测量则木河断裂地震微地貌特征

地震微地貌是研究古地震的重要证据。 发生在则木河断裂带上的1850年地震的地表破裂带在人类活动较少的地区得以保存完好。 研究区内地形起伏大, 断塞塘、 断层陡坎、 鼓包等微地震地貌特征明显, 在三维视图内可直观反映测量区内的这些地貌特征。 利用后差分GPS方法测量断裂活动形成的地震微地貌, 水平测量精度可达0.5 m, DEM精度可到一个像元1 m, 是定量化研究地震微地貌的一种新方法。 测量结果表明, 大箐梁子顶部七条干沟对应多次古地震事件; 大箐梁子顶部鼓包被断裂断错, 断塞塘沉积区向南迁移, 鼓包最新断错约4 m, 大箐村南山坡形成50 cm高断层陡坎。 说明大箐梁子一带地震活动性较强, 且以挤压构造为主。     

Breaking rocks made easy. Blending stress control concepts to advance geomorphology

All landscapes are subject to stress fields, conditioned by their formation and ongoing tectonic and geomorphic changes. With this ESEX Commentary we wish to stimulate a debate on this invisible but persistent stress control on landforms, processes and materials in geomorphology. We address the legacy of active and passive stress fields, which translates into the concept of ‘tectonic predesign’, in conjunction with a perspective of geomorphic processes being driven by subcritical stresses. These concepts complement each other as ‘subcritical processes’ are controlled by tectonic predesign and in turn modulate the stress fields. This offers new theoretical and practical perspectives on how landscapes evolve, processes form materials and how rocks break easily. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.