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Abstract:

The molluscan assemblages identified at the location in the Glinne Stream in the eastern part of the Polish Carpathian foreland were subjected to malacological analysis. The detailed studies pertained to seven profiles with thicknesses of up to 6 metres. Within them, three series were distinguished: gravel, peat-mud-tufa, and silts. The malacological analysis enabled separation of six distinct fauna assemblages of diversified compositions and structures. Their sequence in the profiles provided the basis of reconstruction of the environmental changes associated with climatic fluctuations and human activities. The lowermost section of the sequence, containing gravels, did not contain the remains of molluscs, and its emergence can be linked to the Late Glacial. The peat, muds, and calcareous tufas overlaying them contained rich malacofauna with the predominance of forest species. The composition of the assemblages and the results of radiocarbon dating indicate their emergence during the Early and Middle Holocene, as well as during the older part of the Subboreal Phase. The silty series, which forms the roof sections of profiles, contained poor assemblages with open-country species. The nature of the sediment and the results of radiocarbon dating testify to the anthropogenic deforestation of the area which occurred at the beginning of Subatlantic Phase. The changes in the environment observed in the Glinne Stream valley correspond closely to the changes described in other river valleys of the Carpathian foreland.