Seismic stratigraphy and sediment cores reveal lake-level fluctuations in Lake Iznik (NW Turkey) over the past ~70 ka

Our study aims to understand the palaeohydrological history of Lake Iznik and unravel the complex interplay between climatic, tectonic, and environmental factors that have shaped this Turkish basin. Through the analysis of seismic stratigraphy and sediment cores, we reveal a significant lowstand, indicating a lake level 60 m lower than today at ~70 ka BP. Subsequently, a major phase of stepwise transgression is evidenced by 13 buried palaeoshorelines between ~70–45 ka BP. From 45 to ~10 ka cal BP, strong currents controlled the sedimentation in the lake, as evidenced by the occurrence of contourite drifts. Between ~14–10 ka cal. BP, a major lowstand indicating a drier climate interrupted the current-controlled sedimentation regime. From ~10 ka cal. BP, the subsequent increase in lake level occurred at the same time as the reconnection between the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Archaeological evidence, including submerged structures of a basilica, establishes a link between lake-level changes and human settlement during the last millennium. The level of Lake Iznik has since continued to fluctuate due to climate change, tectonic events, and human activity.