Section 4.1.3: Chironomid analysis: background, methods and geomorphological applications

Subfossil chironomids can provide both qualitative and quantitative reconstructions of past climatic and environmental conditions. Chironomid data are frequently used in palaeoecological and palaeoclimate studies, however geomorphological studies using chironomid data are currently few. Chironomid records are produced from lacustrine and alluvial sediments; these terrestrially based reconstructions can be of benefit to geomorphologists. In order to increase geomorphologists’ awareness of the potential of chironomid data this paper discusses the technique, with a particular focus on geomorphological applications. Chironomids and chironomid analysis are briefly introduced, and the methods used, both in the field and the laboratory, are outlined. Geomorphological studies which have utilised existing chironomid data, including glacial geomorphological, sea level and palaeohydrological studies, are discussed, as well as a chironomid study which produced data specifically aimed at investigating changing sea level. It is hoped that further applications for chironomid data in geomorphological studies will emerge.