Papers by Michał Jankowski
Geoderma, 2011
The Kolno Plateau located in NE Poland is an area of wide soil geochemical and magnetic anomaly w... more The Kolno Plateau located in NE Poland is an area of wide soil geochemical and magnetic anomaly whose origin has not been reliably recognized up to now. Field measurements of surface magnetic susceptibility (κ) as well as 34 vertical topsoil profiles (25 cm) were performed in small forests as they were more or less regularly distributed in the whole area of study, where the profiles were not disturbed by current cultivation. Selected topsoil cores of 30 cm were sampled for grain size and chemical (heavy metals) analysis. Additionally, six deep soil pits were excavated for study of soil morphology and soil type identification. The predominant soil type of the study areas was described as rusty soils according to the "Taxonomy of Polish Soils" (1989) (IUSS, 2006: Brunic Arenosols). Such soils have characteristic Bwo horizons and developed from sandy and/or gravelly material. The topsoil magnetic screening exhibited very low values of κ between 2 and 11 × 10 − 5 SI units. In soil profiles the maximum κ value as well as the maximum total Fe content (up to 5250 mg. kg − 1) was observed mostly in A (Ap) or Bwo horizons without magnetic enhancement in the uppermost organic horizon typical for polluted soils. The κ value in the topsoil profile is rather stable at depths between 2 and 20 cm, which is commonly observed in arable soils. It suggests the former agricultural use of studied soils which are now afforested. These values together with the pattern of their vertical distribution in soil profile suggest that the measured κ values are of geogenic origin. These soils did not exhibit any increased concentration of heavy metals (max. Pb = 21, Zn = 19, and Cu = 6 mg. kg − 1). The former arable use of rusty soils was also confirmed by morphological observation of the studied profiles, where in many cases the Ap horizon of relatively large thickness with considerable homogenization and a distinct underneath boundary was distinguished. Geochemical and magnetic topsoil anomalies in the area of Kolno Plateau reported in former publications are probably limited to more fertile Haplic Luvisols used as arable soils. In this case the sources of their geochemical and magnetic enrichments are moraine tills occurring in the geological background, which are usually enriched in heavy metals connected with clay mineral fractions.
Quaternary International, Oct 1, 2016
International Journal of Conservation Science, Mar 15, 2023
One of the limitations of satellite techniques in archaeological investigations is the land cover... more One of the limitations of satellite techniques in archaeological investigations is the land cover. Heritage objects may be more or less visible depending on the land cover type. Low vegetation, such as grass or small shrubs, will usually allow us to determine the location of archaeological objects if the difference in height between the object and vegetation is not significant enough. Forest or high vegetation cover makes it more challenging to determine the location of potentially artificial structures. This project's study area covered 50×70 km of the lower reaches of the Vistula River, Poland. The authors searched for anthropogenic objects close to watercourses and analysed nine different (point, line and surface type) objects having a defensive, sepulchral or settlement function. Circular objects, ditches and earth embankments, burial mounds and strongholds of regular forms were found during this research. Based on nine different models processed with LiDAR-based DEMs, several characteristics and relationships of various types of objects were demonstrated. Moreover, optimal models for searching for archaeological objects in forest areas were defined.
International Journal of Conservation Science
Landscape archaeology (archaeogeography) is a multidisciplinary study used by prehistorical, clas... more Landscape archaeology (archaeogeography) is a multidisciplinary study used by prehistorical, classic, and historical archaeologists. Archaeogeography deals with the study of how people have shaped and used their environment throughout history. It focuses on the relationship between the material culture of a given community and the changes it introduces in its spatial environment. Traditionally search for archaeological sites is mainly carried out using surface research, i.e., observation of ploughed fields in spring and autumn. However, the percentage ratio of the area covered by forests to the total area of the countries can reach up to even several dozen per cent. This is where archaeogeography aided with modern remote sensing data and processing techniques can be most useful. In this article, the authors describe the problems occurring while searching for anthropological objects in forest areas. In this first part of the two-part series, the authors present a non-invasive method ...
Biologia, 2017
The benefits of biochar application are well described in tropical soils, however there is a dear... more The benefits of biochar application are well described in tropical soils, however there is a dearth of information on its effects in agricultural temperate soils. An interesting and little explored interaction may occur in an intensive agriculture setting; biochar addition may modify the effect of commonplace N-fertilization. We conducted a field experiment to study the effects of biochar application at the rate of 0, 10 and 20 t ha
Quaternary International, 2019
This study presents the sedimentary facies, stratigraphic framework and palaeoenvironmental condi... more This study presents the sedimentary facies, stratigraphic framework and palaeoenvironmental conditions of the Weichselian sediments in the Middle Vistula Region. Based on sedimentological, palynological, palaeopedological and absolute age studies (luminescence and radiocarbon dating), a succession of three lithofacial complexes and the pattern of their evolution was distinguished. The lowermost, fluvial complex is composed of two parts separated by an extensive erosional surface. They were deposited in a braided river system during two distinct periods of Weichselian climate cooling: first at the end of the Marine Isotope Stage 5a and during the entire Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4, and then at the end of MIS 2 (Late Glacial). The middle, fluvio-aeolian complex was deposited during the Late Glacial as an effect of alternating fluvial and aeolian processes on abandoned, higher river terraces under periglacial conditions (discontinuous permafrost). It represents a record of climatic amelioration, culminating in the succession of tundra vegetation and sparse pine-birch forests, causing the formation of a soil in the top part of the middle complex. The uppermost, aeolian complex was deposited during the Older and Younger Dryas as a result of permafrost degradation. The deposition was interrupted by the expansion of boreal forest during the Allerød and the development of soils. Climate has been recognized as a major factor determining changes in sedimentary environments. The cooling of the climate during the Weichselian was conducive to the aggradation of sediments and permafrost. In contrast, climate warming resulted in increased erosion in the valley and creation of terraces.
Soil Science Annual, 2021
Since the end of the 18 th century Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) monocultures have been artifi ci... more Since the end of the 18 th century Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) monocultures have been artifi cially introduced in extensive areas of rusty soils in Central Europe. Such forest management practice has involved, however, several serious problems, like e.g. soil degradation implying the decrease in productivity of forest sites, and the clear increase in the risk of disturbances (pest gradations, fi res, wind damages etc.) occurrence. Those troubles have involved the increasing discussion on rational forest management on sandy soils, which are predominant in lowland woodlands of Central Europe. Thus, in this paper we aimed to indicate selected problems of sustainable management of rusty soils in forestry with regard to lowland forests found in the region. The special focus was paid on controversies being related to conversion of pine stands overgrowing these soils, because of its especially high importance for forest management in Central Europe. We postulate that we should intensify the conversion of pure pine stands overgrowing rusty soils into mixed forests, which would reduce the risk of the assumed, and being involved with the ongoing climate changes, problems with the stability of pine forests in Central Europe. The study shows that the current methodology of forest site types diagnosis used in Poland may lead to underestimation of the types, and consequently it consolidates the focus of Polish forestry on breeding pine stands on rusty soils. Following the existing controversies regarding the diagnosis of a forest site type on rusty soils, we postulate that we should more broadly underplant pine stands overgrowing the soils with deciduous trees, regardless of the diagnosed forest site type in forest inventory works. In turn, in conversions executed in maturing conifer stands using a gap cutting, the emphasis should be put on plant diversity. Namely, we highlight in the paper that in the gaps, besides major deciduous species (usually oak and/or beech), the admixture of ameliorative trees should obligatory be introduced (e.g. European hornbeam, Carpinus betulus), which happens to be ignored in practice. We postulate also that logging residues removal, which is still executed in some forest districts in Poland, should be skipped. This practice is especially irrational when it is done in sites dedicated for stand conversion, because it highly increases the risk of mortality and/or of the distinct decrease in growth dynamics of young hardwoods introduced in post-pine sites.
The aim of this study was to present some examples of sandy soils and to discuss their position i... more The aim of this study was to present some examples of sandy soils and to discuss their position in soil systematics. 8 profiles represent: 4 soils widely distributed in postglacial landscapes of Poland (Central Europe), typical for different geomorphological conditions and vegetation habitats (according to regional soil classification: Arenosol, Podzolic soil, Rusty soil and Mucky soil) and 4 soils having unusual features (Gleyic Podzol and Rusty soil developed in a CaCO 3=rich substratum and two profiles of red=colored Oc hre soils). According to WRB (IUSS Working Group WRB, 2007), almost all of these soils can be named Arenosols. Considering their individual morphological features (stage of development, sequence of horizons) and different ecological value, most of the studied soils should be classified into other Reference Soil Groups or even distinguished in individual units.
The paper presents structure and interpretation of combined chronosequence of soil paleocatenas, ... more The paper presents structure and interpretation of combined chronosequence of soil paleocatenas, formed in the postglacial period in the inland dune area of the ToruBasin (Northern Poland, Central Europe). Based on radiocarbon, palynological and archaeological datings, four generations of paleosols were distinguished, of Allerod, Preboreal, Eo-Mesoholocene and Neoholocene ages. Time spans of pedogenesis divide periods of aeolian activity: Late Glacial climatogenic period with three phases: pre-Allerod, Younger Dryas and late Preboreal and anthropogenic period with episodes correlated with archaeological cultures and second-level climate oscillations, during Neoholocene. Paleosols of particular generations form similar catena patterns on dune slopes, composed of Podzols, Gleyic Podzols, Humic Gleysols and Histosols, providing diversity of geoecosystems depending on landscape position. Additionally, during Holocene two different sandy analogues of Cambisols developed: so called Finow ...
Antiquity, 2021
The cemetery site for which the Wielbark Culture was named has been known for over a century. The... more The cemetery site for which the Wielbark Culture was named has been known for over a century. The scientific value of the site is, however, only now beginning to be realised. With a continuous sequence of use spanning five centuries, the site may hold clues that can shed new light on population continuity and the migrations of the Goths.
Praehistorische Zeitschrift, 2014
Zusammenfassung: Forschungsgegenstand dieses Artikels ist ein Begräbnis- und Ritualplatz der Kuge... more Zusammenfassung: Forschungsgegenstand dieses Artikels ist ein Begräbnis- und Ritualplatz der Kugelamphoren-Kultur der Fundstätte 14 in Kowal (Zentral-Polen). Die Stätte umfasst einen Submegalithen sowie einen Ritualplatz mit Tiergräbern und einer menschlichen Bestattung. Der Komplex kann auf die Zeit zwischen 3250/3100 und 2400/2150 v. Chr. datiert werden. Analysen haben gezeigt, dass der Platz über eine lange Zeit benutzt wurde, und dass die durchgeführten Rituale sehr komplex waren. Beweise wurden gefunden, dass an einigen Stellen rituelle Handlungen ohne Unterbrechung über viele Jahre durchgeführt wurden und einzelne Tieropfer und Niederlegungen nur durch einen Zeitraum von wenigen Jahren voneinander getrennt waren. Die Fund-Struktur einiger Gruben zeigt eine sehr penible Organisation des geheiligten Platzes und ermöglicht an einigen Stellen sogar eine Unterscheidung in Nutz- und rituelle Zonen. Weitere wichtige Informationen wurden durch die Untersuchung einer menschlichen Grabl...
Baltic-Pontic Studies, 2017
The paper presents δ13C and δ15N isotope content measurements in human bones from 16 graves, bein... more The paper presents δ13C and δ15N isotope content measurements in human bones from 16 graves, being part of the Yampil Barrow Complex. From the results, conclusions may be drawn about the diet of barrow builders and users. It was based on vegetable foodstuffs and characterised by a varied share of terrestrial animal meat, depending on the period. High δ13C values suggest a share of C4-type plants in the diet, possibly millet.
Baltic-Pontic Studies, 2017
The paper presents results of pedological studies of Klembivka site 1 and Prydnistryanske site 1 ... more The paper presents results of pedological studies of Klembivka site 1 and Prydnistryanske site 1 barrow IV and the reference soil profile Prydnistryanske site 1 in the context of pedostratigraphy, basic soil properties, construction material origin and palaeoenvironmental implications.
Baltic-Pontic Studies, 2017
Ancient DNA was analyzed in altogether 28 Late Eneolithic and Bronze Age human skeletons form 4 s... more Ancient DNA was analyzed in altogether 28 Late Eneolithic and Bronze Age human skeletons form 4 sites in southern Ukraine. More than 0,3% of human DNA was preserved only in 13 skeletons. The results of our analyses provide evidence that recovery of DNA molecules suitable for genetic analyses is more dependent on the specificity of the archaeological site and is not strongly correlated with particular environmental factors.
Acta Oecologica, 2017
Abstract The inland dunes of Central Europe are commonly overplanted by Scots pine ( Pinus sylves... more Abstract The inland dunes of Central Europe are commonly overplanted by Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris ) monocultures in which the primary occurrence of the natural vegetation pattern is obliterated. We hypothesize that on naturally revegetated inland dunes the pattern is clear and driven by topographically-controlled site conditions. To test this hypothesis, we addressed the following research questions: (1) Does topography drive vegetation patterns on inland dunes and if so, what are main differences between vegetation in varying relief positions? (2) To what extent does topography involve the variability of microclimates and of soil properties, and how does the topographically-induced differentiation of these site conditions control vegetation patterns? We conducted interdisciplinary studies (applying floristic, pedological and microclimatic research techniques) on a naturally revegetated inland dune area situated on a military artillery training ground near Torun, northern Poland. We investigated vegetation patterns with reference to three topographical position variants (north-facing slopes, south-facing slopes, and intra-dune depressions). We found distinct differences in vegetation characteristics covering the aforementioned topographical positions. This primarily concerned species composition of ground vegetation: Calluna vulgaris was dominant species on north-facing slopes, Corynephorus canescens on south-facing slopes, while Calamagrostis epigejos in intra-dune depressions. In comparison to dune slopes, the depressions were characterized by much higher biodiversity of vascular plant species. This followed the most favorable soil conditions for the existence of plants (higher moisture and nutrient pools) occurring in low topographical positions. However, tree succession was most advanced not in depressions, where the competitive impact of tall grasses on seedlings was recognized, but on north-facing slopes. Based on our results, we formulated some suggestions, which could be useful for both practical foresters to increase biodiversity of ecosystems and for practices that work on the fixation of dunes by restoring vegetation.
Quaternary International, 2015
ABSTRACT The object of the study was the fluvio-aeolian sedimentary succession in eight sites loc... more ABSTRACT The object of the study was the fluvio-aeolian sedimentary succession in eight sites located in the central part of the European Sand Belt, in Poland and NW Ukraine. Based on the lithofacies, pedological and morphoscopic analyses, the analyses of frost structures and grain size as well as the TL, IR-OSL and 14C dating, three lithofacies complexes deposited at the turn of the Weichselian and Holocene were documented. The fluvial complex was deposited in the Pleniglacial within a sandbed braided river, which in the final stage of deposition of the complex was transformed into an anastomosing river. These rivers functioned in continuous permafrost coverage. The fluvio-aeolian complex was the result of aeolian deposition and fluvial redeposition, resulting from the degradation of continuous permafrost at the turn of the Pleni- and Late Glacial. These processes operated in the areas abandoned by regular flow. The aeolian complex was accumulated following the development of aeolian sand forms – sandy and silt covers as well as parabolic and longitudinal dunes, after the complete degradation of permafrost at the end of the Late Glacial and Holocene. Improving climatic conditions were expressed by the presence of fossil levels of initial gley soil in the roof of the fluvio-aeolian complex as well as poorly developed podzolic and colluvial soils in the aeolian complex.
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Papers by Michał Jankowski