Glacial chronology and topographic controls in the Tsambagarav Massif, western Mongolia: Insights from 10Be dating

Abstract

The Tsambagarav Massif in the Mongolian Altai preserves a detailed record of glacial fluctuations from the Late Pleistocene to the present. Using geomorphological mapping, ¹⁰Be surface exposure dating, equilibrium line altitude (ELA) reconstructions, and geomorphometric analysis, we reconstruct the extent, timing, and dynamics of glacier advances across the massif. Our results indicate that the maximum glacial advance in the Ulaan Am (southwestern) Valley predated global Last Glacial Maximum (gLGM), occurring during MIS 3 (∼40 ka), with a subsequent readvance between ∼31 and 21 ka. In contrast, other glaciers, including the Tsagaan Seer (southwestern) and Yamaat (northern), reached their maximum positions broadly synchronous with the gLGM (∼26.5–19 ka). Furthermore, the Bituu Ereg (eastern) Valley records a significant Late Glacial expansion at ∼15.4 ka. Following these advances, glaciers retreated abruptly and the massif was completely deglaciated by the mid-Holocene thermal maximum. Glaciers subsequently reformed during the Neoglacial (∼6 ka) and responded sensitively to centennial-scale climate variability, including advances during the Little Ice Age (LIA) and rapid retreat under recent warming. Modern and Late Pleistocene ELAs exhibit a clear regional rise from the northwest toward the southeast across the Altai Mountains. The magnitude of Late Pleistocene ELA depressions follows the same orientation, reflecting an increased glacial sensitivity to climatic shifts in more arid environments. Throughout the massif, glacial distribution and magnitude have been consistently modulated by topographic controls rather than climate alone. Specifically, northern and eastern slopes supported the most extensive ice cover; northern glaciers were sustained by reduced solar radiation through topographic shading, while eastern glaciers were possibly driven by enhanced snow accumulation from westerly wind drift and the structural eastward tilt of the massif. These findings highlight the critical interplay between regional climate and local terrain in shaping glacial histories in arid high-mountain environments, contributing to a broader understanding of Quaternary glaciation across Central Asia.