Research progress on the geomorphic evolution of the Taihu Lake Basin since the LGM and its implications for the human living environment

The coupling between Neolithic cultural vicissitudes and paleogeomorphic evolution is a core issue in environmental archaeological research in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. Based on a synthesis and analysis of advances in environmental archaeology over the past few decades, the study systematically reviews and evaluates key scientific issues such as sea-level changes in eastern China since the Last Glacial Maximum, the geomorphic evolution processes in the Taihu Lake Basin, and their impacts on the distribution of Neolithic sites, with a focus on discussing controversial issues such as the existence of the Holocene high sea-level stand, the genesis of the “present-day Taihu Lake”, and the causes of the collapse of the Liangzhu culture. In addition, by synthesizing the prehistoric subsistence strategies, the study offers new insights into the prospection of Neolithic sites predating 7 ka BP. The results demonstrate that the sea-level in East China commenced a period of rapid rise following the end of the LGM. The rate of rise then decreased at ∼7 ka BP, shifting to a slower rise phase with subsequent fluctuating upward trends. A mid-Holocene high sea-level stand occurred during ∼7–4 ka BP, with sea-level ∼2 m higher than present-day level. Furthermore, the geomorphic evolution of the Taihu Lake Basin stems from the long-term superimposition and coupling of multiple driving factors. It underwent successive stages of “paleosurface formation”, “hummocky terrace formation”, “chenier ridge formation”, and “dish-shaped depression formation”. During ∼7–3 ka BP, the area experienced a geomorphic reversal stage, evolving from a hummocky terrace toward a lake-plain landscape centered on dish-shaped depressions. The spatial distribution of Neolithic sites in this region closely responds to geomorphic and environmental changes, revealing a distinct human migration pattern: settlements shifted from uplands to plains and subsequently to high coastal areas. The collapse of the Liangzhu culture was primarily triggered by frequent flooding events, which were jointly induced by ENSO-enhanced precipitation variability and sea-level rise under cold and dry climatic conditions. Neolithic sites predating 7 ka BP may be preserved on elevated terraces and paleochannel terraces formed during the terminal LGM.