Geomorphology of Horseshoe Island, Marguerite Bay, Antarctica

Abstract

Here, a geomorphological map of Horseshoe Island, which is one of the most ice-free islands in Marguerite Bay of the Antarctic Peninsula, is provided. The landforms on the island were mapped by using Google Earth images. Field reconnaissance of the landforms was carried out in March 2018. The island is subdivided into three major geomorphologically different sectors. The northern sector is mostly covered by a remnant of a non-erosive ice cap and has limited glacial landforms and deposits. The central sector is rich in terms of glacial and periglacial landforms and deposits. Glaciers are still sculpting the southern sector and it has extensive features of glacial erosion and deposition. The most common landforms on the island are talus cones, moraines, patterned ground, and raised beaches. The geomorphological map of the island will be a useful base for further geomorphic and/or glaciologic research in this climate-sensitive region.

Keywords

• antarctic peninsula
• marquerite bay
• horseshoe island
• glacial landforms
• periglacial landforms
• glacio-isostatic landforms