Rockglacier Taxonomy

Abstract

According to the definitions in the foregoing chapters, active rockglaciers are the visible expression of the creep of supersaturated mountain permafrost. The process combination which leads to the formation of an active rockglacier is controlled by thermal boundaries that allow the formation of ice-rich permafrost in unconsolidated materials in mountain terrain. Material properties (ice type, etc.) are clearly of minor importance. A taxonomy or a classification of rockglacier types has, therefore, to follow certain rules: it should avoid unnecessary genetic and material complications, it should not contain special hypotheses, and it should be descriptive and easily applicable.