A new Middle Pleistocene interglacial sequence from Måløv, Sjælland, Denmark

Abstract

Interglacial deposits in Denmark have traditionally been referred to the Cromerian complex (Hareskovian), Holsteinian or Eemian stages. However, based on studies of sediment cores from the deep sea many more than three Quaternary interglacials have been documented, and in other parts of north-western Europe it is becoming increasingly clear that the on-shore Quaternary sequences are much more complex than previously believed. Interglacial deposits are characterised by plant and animal remains indicating longer periods with climatic conditions similar to or warmer than today, whereas interstadial deposits were formed during shorter time spans and usually contain remains of relatively cold-adapted, arctic or sub-arctic species. Interglacial and interstadial deposits can be dated more or less precisely, and thus provide information about the relative age of glacial deposits.