Categorization and Terrain Parameter Analysis of Rock Glaciers in the Balgart Valley, Central Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan

Rock glaciers, landforms characterized by a thick debris layer protecting internal ice, are potential future water resources in dry regions. This study aims to theoretically review rock glacier development and analyze the influence of terrain parameters on rock glacier formation in the Balgart Valley, central Tien Shan. We identified 23 rock glaciers along the valley’s northern slope, categorizing them as either ‘Talus-connected’ or ‘Glacier forefield-connected’ based on the contributing areas of their ice and debris supply sources. Correlation and multiple regression analyses between rock glacier terrain parameters and contributing area characteristics reveal that rock glacier size tends to be proportional to the area and width of the contributing area. Furthermore, lower slopes in the contributing area correlate with better rock glacier development. Regional comparisons indicate that favorable terrain parameters for rock glacier development vary. For instance, in the Front Range of Colorado, larger rock glaciers develop with increasing contributing area width, whereas in the northern Tien Shan, longer and narrower contributing areas promote larger rock glacier formations. This study enhances our understanding of rock glacier development in the Balgart Valley and contributes to the broader knowledge of regional variations in rock glacier formations.