Contour Currents and Contourites of the Middle Caspian

Abstract

Experimental data have shown that the cyclonic circulation in the Middle Caspian is a seasonal contour current surrounding the Middle Caspian megabasin along the slope during the cold half of the year. This current and the enormous influx of suspended particulate matter on the western slope of the Middle Caspian Basin provide conditions for the formation of contourites near the slope foot. In addition, the joint action of the contour current and slope gravity flows led to the formation of specific accumulative structures, sedimentary waves, on the western slope of the Middle Caspian.