Buynevich, I. V.
Recent vertebrate tracks in sandy substrates and their
palaeoenvironmental implications: examples from coastal Lithuania
Abstract. A diverse suite of vertebrate footprints
documented along the coast of Lithuania offers insights into the distribution
and preservation potential of tracks in sandy substrates. Whereas ichnotaxonomy
is not conventionally applied to modern tracks, a case is made for using a footprint classification based on
Vialov’s (1966) nomenclature for both observed and predicted track distribution
based on extramorphological characteristics of the tracemaker. Along a barrier
spit (Curonian Spit) and mainland shoreline (Būtingė) sites, two general types
of avian footprints (Avipeda isp), as well as three carnivore (Bestiopeda),
four ungulate (Pecoripeda, Suipeda, Hippipeda), and two rodent (Rodentipeda)
track morphotypes are described. The habitat preferences result in a
predictable distribution of track assemblages with a potential of
differentiating vertebrate ichnofacies (lagoon shoreline, open sea beach,
dunes). The moisture content, possibility of freezing and rapid aeolian burial,
and lithological anomalies (e.g., heavy-mineral concentrations) enhance the
preservation potential of tracks. Once preserved, the context of trackways with
respect to bedding surfaces determines their integrity and here a model of
potential regional track distribution is proposed. Track formation and
preservation in modern settings provides a useful guide to locating and
studying vertebrate footprints and other traces in sand-dominated coastal and
aeolian sequences.