Löffelschüssel

Löffelschüssel is a term of German origin that translates literally to "spoon bowl." It refers to a type of geological formation, specifically a depression in the ground often found in periglacial environments. These formations are typically shallow and wide, resembling an inverted bowl or a large spoon's concave surface.

The formation of Löffelschüssel is attributed to a process known as frost wedging and cryoturbation. In areas with permafrost, repeated cycles of freezing and thawing cause ice lenses to form and expand within the soil. This expansion can lift and displace soil and rocks. When the ice melts, the ground subsides unevenly. Over time, these repeated freeze-thaw cycles, combined with solifluction (slow downslope movement of water-saturated soil), can lead to the development of these characteristic bowl-shaped depressions.

Löffelschüssel formations are indicative of a cold climate with significant ground ice content and seasonal frost action. They are often found in Arctic and alpine regions. The size of a Löffelschüssel can vary, ranging from a few meters to several tens of meters in diameter. They can sometimes fill with water, forming small ponds or mires, which can further influence the local microhabitat. The presence of Löffelschüssel is a significant geomorphological feature for understanding past and present climatic conditions in a region.